
£'355 



Glass 

Book. W C 



f1 



J> J 



rU 



, ,^-.»*«w*»**^***'*^ 



OF THE 



OFFICIAL ACCOU: TS, 



AIL, OF ALL 

ATTLE 




BY SEA AND 



BETWEEN THE 




NAVY AND ARMY OF THE UNITED STAT ES, 



AND THE 



NAVY AND ARMY OF GREAT BRITAIN. 



BY H. A. FAY, 

Lati Capt. in the Corps oj U. S. Artillerists. 



NEW- YORK : 

PRVSTTEIJ BY E. COXRAI), 



1817. 



f3 6" 6' 



By tranefat 

JAN 16 1916 



Southern District of New-York, ss. 

BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the twenty-ninth day (f April, in 
the forty-first year of the Independence of the United States of America, 
H. A. Fay, of the said District, hath deposited in this office the title of a booh, 
the right whereof he claims as author and proprietor, in the words andfigures 
fallowing, to wit: " Collection of the official accounts, in detail, of all the 
" battles fought, by sea and land, between the navy and army of the United 
" States, and the navy and army of Great Britain, during the years 1812, 13, 
" 14, and 15. By H. A. Fay, late Capt. in the corps of U. S. Artillerists." — 
Jn conformity to the Act of Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act 
for the encouragement of Learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts, 
and Books to the authors and proprietors of su4:h copies, during the time 
therein mentioned.^'' And also to an act, entitled " an Act, supplementary to 
an Act, entitled an Act for the encouragement of Learning, by securing the 
copies of Maps, Charts, and Books' to the authors and proprietors of such 
copies, during the times therein mentioned, and extending the benefits thereof 
to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other prints.^* 

THERON RUDD, 
Clerk of the Southern District of New- York 




Whether the reader approved, or disapproved of the 
causes, conduct, and issue of the late war, is not so mate- 
rial at present — as it is, that he should have it in his pow- 
er, for a very moderate sum, to pteseive, for his ow^n and 
his children's use, the very skeleton aud soul of the histo- 
ry of the war, by this record of the most extraordinary 
actions ever fought ; nor is it conceived, that any man, 
with American feelings, can object to a collection of this 
kind 

It was no part of my object to write a history : this 
should not be attempted but by a Marshal, Clinton, 
Hams AY, or other eminent writer, who could, without 
prejudice or partiality, state the rvhole grounds of the 
war — the manner in which it was conducted — the events 
which happened between the actions herein recorded, 
with the political and other effects which the war itself 
produced on the people of the United States. 

This, therefore, is only a collection of the " Official 
Accounts, in detail, of all the battles fought, by sea and 
land," during the late war, as given by the officer who 
commanded in each action, or, (in case of his death,) by 
the next in command. 

Nor did I think proper to add a single comment of my 
own — choosing rather to leave the reader to make his 
own remarks, and form his own opinion, from a simple 
statement of facts, as given to the people by those whose 
duty and whose honor were deeply concerned in givin^; 
correct statements ; nor is it proper (as some have done) 
to alter the style of these communications, not even in a 
single word ; because, from the composition itself, much 
may be seen of the character of the writers. 



I am happy, however, in this opportunity, to state my 
belief", that tne actions, herein detailed, are reported with 
less partiahty than were ever a Hke number of actions by 
any other nation ; but this only shews my opinion of Ame- 
rican officers, compared with others. 

It would be very satisfactory to have a genuine collec- 
tion, of similar events, during our revolutionary war — the 
general rcsuU has been stated by Ramsay and Gordon ; 
but, I believe, there never has been collected a detailed 
account of the actions fought — hence the names of those 
(especially subalterns) who distinguished themselves, have 
not been made kown, except in very extraordinary cases ; 
and it is one prime object, in publishing this collection, to 
do jiislice to all^ (fevvry i^radc, that their names may be 
always remembered by the American people. 

Besides, a complete history of the war will form a work, 
which will be beyond the means of the majority of the 
people to purchase. This collection was put low, with 
a view of obviating that objection, and placing it within 
the means of almost every man; and, if I may be allowed 
to recommend a book to be used in our schools, I know of 
none better calculated to keep alive the true national 
fvflin<£S^ than the one here presented. 

Instead of publishing in duodecimo form, as at first pro- 
posed, it was thouojht advisable to make it an octavo, with 
a larger type, and a much fairer page — the cost, to me, is 
more; but, if the work has a tendency (as I believe it 
will) to disseminate, and keep alive the national feeling, 
a main object is answered. The collection was made for 
my own use, as a soldier, without reference to, or inten- 
tion of publication — I wish it may prove useful to others. 

H. A. FAY. 



INDEX. 



Actions fought at Detroit, Fort Mtigs, and within their 

vicinity. 

PA6K. 

Battle of Brownstown - - - - 9 

General Hull's Surrender - - - - 35 

Brock's Account <jf Hull's Surrender - 26 

Captain Z. Faylor's Defence of Fort Harrison - 29 

Colonel Uusscll against the Indians - - - 53 

General Hopkins against the Indians - - 58 

Captain Heald's Defeat, by the Indians - - 65 

Defeat of Gen. Winchester - - - - 73 

Further parti-ulars of Winchester's Defeat - 75 
General Harrison's Account of an Attack upon Fort 

Meigs ..---- 88 

Second Letter, on the same subject - - 90 

Colonel Dudley's Defeat ... - 93 

Croghan's Defence of Sandusky - _ - 117 

D*'clar fion of War by the Six Nations - - 119 

Fort Maiden laken _ . - - - 127 

Defeat of Gen. Proctor - - - - 128 

Treaty witli the Indians at Detroit - i6. 
Gener 1 Harrison's Detailed Report of the Defeat of 

Gen. Proctor ... - - 133 

Captain Holmes, on the river De French - - 178 



Actions fought on the Niagara, at SackeVs Harbor, and 

their vicinity. 
Battle of QueenstowQ - - - - 33 

Attack, upon Fort Niagara - - - . 56 



PAGE. 

Winding up of Gen. Smjtli's Aflairs - - 61 
Capture of two British arnjed vessels, on the Niagara 

strait, by Capl. Elliott, and others - - 67 

Capture of York, U. Can da . . _ gl 

Terms of CapituJaiion (York) - - - 85 

Loss of the Lnemy, in the above Capture - - «86 

Capture of Fort George (U. C) - - - 95 

Proceedings, after t!ie captu;e of Fort George - - 100 

Defence of Sacket's Harbor - - - - 101 

Capture of Generals Chandler and Winder - 104 
Movements of Gen. Lewis, subsequent io the capture of 

Chandler and Winder _ . _ - 105 

Colonel Doerstler's Surrender - - - 112 

Major Chapin's Escape - _ _ _ 114, 

S* ott and Chauncey's Expedition to Burlington Tsay (U. C.) 116 

Conimodoie Chauntey and Sir James Yeo — skirmishing 126 

Loss of Fort I^iiagara _ . - . i65 

Destruction of Buffaloe _ _ - _ ±67 

Colonel Mitchell, at Oswego _ - - 188 

Major Appling, at Sandy Creek - _ . 191 

Battle at Chi[)pewa, July. 18l4> - . - 209 

General Br wn's Detailed Report of the above - 212 

After movements of Gen. Brown's a my - - 216 
General Brown's Disappointment, in not having the fleet 

on Lake Ontario to assist him - - _ 217 

Battle of Bridgew ter . - - . 2I8 

Detailed Report of the Battle of Bridgewater - . £19 

Battle at Fort Erie (U.C.) - - - 228 

Sortieat Fort Erie . , . - _ 24b0 

Detailed Report of the Sortie at Fort Erie - 254 

Afl'air near Chippewa - - . - 264 

General Izard's Account of the above Afl'air - 265 



Actions on the St. Lawrence, Plaltshurgh, and their 

vicinity. 
Affair at St. Regis . .... 40 
Colonel Clark's Expedition, and success - - 142 
General Wilkinson's Proclamation ... 145 
Action at Williamsburgli (U. C) - - 146 
Correspondence between Generals Wilkinson and Hamp- 
ton, on the proposed junction of their armies - 151 
General Hampton's Affair at Chatauguay - 155 
Wilkinson, at La ColIeMUl . - 181 



His General Order - - - - - 18^. 

Defence of Fort Moreau . - . . 236 

General Macomb's Detailed Account of the above 241 



Naval Actions. 

Capture of the Sloop of war Alert, by the Essex - 27 

Guerrier, by the Constitution - ib. 

Commodore Chaun< ey, on Lake Ontario - - 42 

Capture of the Frolic, by the Wasp . _ _ 44 

Macedonian, by the United States - 5? 

J.va, by the Constitution - - 7i 

Peacock, by the Hornet - - 77 

American Gun-boats, with the Frigate Junon - 109 

Loss of the Frigate Chesapeake . - - no 

Capture of the English Schooner, Lady Murray 112 

a British Tender ... 113 

Gun-boat, on Lake Ontario - - 115 

the Dominico . . _ 120 

Boxer _ _ _ - {})^ 
Commodore Perry's Victory, on Lake Erie - 122 
Loss of the Argus — Britisli Account - - 127 
Re-capture of the Julia and Growler - - 129 
Commodore Chauncey and Sir James L. Yeo — the for- 
mer having the latler in his power - 130 
Capture of the British Brig Morgiana - - 141 

Epervier . > . _ 155 

Commodore Barney's Flotilla, with Enemy's Frigates 193 

Destruction of a Gun-boat, on Lake Ontario - 193 

Captain Porter's Cruise, and Loss of the Essex - 194 

Captain Hillyar's Complinientarv Letter - - 209 

Destruction of a vessel (building) at Presque-Isle 210 

Frigate Adams destroyed _ _ _ _ 235 

M<Donough's Victory - . . _ 236 

His Detailed Report - - - - 237 

Capture of the Reindeer - _ - _ 259 

Further Account of the Wasp's Cruise - - 266 

Privateer General Armstrong . _ _ 269 

Account of do. by an English Gentleman 274 

Capture of the Penguin, by the Hornet - - 287 

Cyane and Levant, by the Constitution 288 



8 
Southern War. 

FA6E, 

Colonel Newman's Expedition against the Indians 46 

Capture of the Plantagenet's Barge, &c. - - 115 

General Coff«*e ligainst the Indians - - 14,3 

White do. . . _ 159 

General Floyd's Victory over the Creeks - 161 

Claiborne against the Indians > - I6S 

Floyd's Victory over the Creeks - 16, 

Jackson against the Creeks - - . 170 

do. do. - - ^ 179 

Colonel Pearson against the Indians - - - 219 

Affair of Bladensburgh - - - _ 225 

Attack on Baltimore - _ - > 247 

Colonel Armistead's Defence of Fort M'Henry - 251 

Defence of Fort Bowyer - - - - 259 

Account of the Action at Foit Bowyer - - - 262 

Destruf tion of the Pirates of Barrataria - - 263 

Action of the 23d Devembor, near New-Orleans - 277 

General Jackson's Detailed Report - - 278 

Further Proceedings, December 29 - - - 281 

Battle of January Stii, near Orleans - - - ib. 

Detailed Rep- rt of the above action - - 284 

Decampment of the Enemy - - - - 286 



Miscellaneous. 

Rupture with Algiers — cause of - - - ■tO 

General Miller's demand upon Sir J. B. Warren for 

O'Neale, a prisoner, and Sir J. B's reply - 8C 




OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS, 



BATTLE OF BROWNBTOWN, 



I am indebted for the following account of the battle of 
Brownstown, to Major James Dalliba, who was in the 
action, and who has published it under the inspection 
of General James Miller, who commanded the Ameri- 
can forces in said action. 

A part of Major Dalliba's account is omitted here, because 
it more properly belongs to the historian to record. 

THE PUBLISHER. 
■ » 

The object of publishing the following narrative, is, to 
relate a simple story of facts, which are not generally 
known ; and which, I think, cannot but be interesting to 
those who take the trouble to read it. 

I have often conversed with gentlemen of intelligence 
on the subject of the campaign of the North Western Ar- 
my, under the command of General Hull, in 1812, who 
appeared to possess but very little correct information re- 
lative to the transactions of that army. 

So little was said about it at the time, that the impres- 
sion on the public mind, that such an event ever occurred, 
is nearly lost. The distance of the scene from the popu- 
lous parts of the country, and the interruption to them, by 
the enemy, confined the intelligence of the engagement to 
the army, and to the few inhabitants of the territory of 



10 

Michigan, until it was brought out by the parolled prison- 
ers of war, after the fatal surrender of the army and of 
the territory, to the enemy, by general Hull. 

The little spark of intelligence, though brilliant, was 
then so completely enveloped in the general darkness 
that pervaded the United States, that it shone but faintly, 
and tlie impressions it made on the minds of the people 
were superficial. 

The communication with the state of Ohio (and the 
United States army at Detroit depended for provisions 
upon its being kept open,) was completely blocked up ; 
the provisions for the supply of Hull's army, under a con- 
voy of 200 men, commanded by Captain Brush of the 
Ohio Volunteers, were waiting at the River Raisin, 36 
miles from Detroit ; Major Van Home had been dispatch- 
ed a day or two before, with a small command, to the assist- 
ance of Captain Brush, but was defeated and driven back. 

General Hull now saw it necessary to turn his serious 
attention to that point ; and to send a force to open this 
communication, which was fully competent to the task, 
both to enable the supplies to pass unmolested, and to 
counteract the unfavorable imprcvSRions made on the minds 
of the troops by the defeat of Major Van Home. 

He accordingly detached from the army a part of the 
regular troops, the Michigan legion and some riflemen, 
and dragoons of the Ohio volunteers, making in the whole 
about 600 men, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel 
James Miller, of the 4th regiment U. S. Infantry, for this 
object. 

The 4th regiment, except one company left at Sand- 
wich, to garrison a small fort, built by order of General 
Hull ; a small detachment of the 1st Infantry, and a 
small number of Artillerists from Captain Dyson's compa- 
ny stationed in fort Detroit, formed the regular troops of 
the detachment, amounting to about 300 in number. The 
Michigan legion consisted of about 60 men, mostly native 
Frenchmen of that territory, commanded by Captain De 
Cant. The cavalry consisted of about 40 dragoons and 
mounted spies, commanded by Captain Sloan, of the corps 
of volunteer cavalry. The riflemen amounted to about 



11 

200, commanded by Major Morrison, of the Ohio vohjii- 
teers, making the liOO men. 

Colonel Miller obtained permission from General Hull to 
take two field pieces with the detachment, one 6 pounder 
and one 5 1-2 inch howitzer, with their appendages and am- 
munition. The first was manned by a squad of" artillerists 
from Captain Dyson's company, detached from fort De- 
troit, and commanded by Lieutenant Jonathan Eastman ; 
that corps and the second was manned by a squad picked 
from the first Infantry (the General refusing to detach 
from the 1st any more Artillerists) and was placed under 
the command of Lieutenant James Dalliba, of the regi- 
ment of Artillerists, then sei'ving as master of ordnance 
to General Hull's army. Captain Brevoort, of the 2d U. 
S. Infantry, then commanding the transports on the lakes ; 
and Captain Abraham P. Hull, of the 1 3th Infantry, son 
and aid to the general, volunteered their semces as aids 
de camp to Colonel Miller. Lieutenant John L. East- 
man, adjutant of the 4th Infantry, served as brigade 
major. Captain Maxwell, of the Ohio volunteers, a revo- 
lutionary ofhcer, and who had served in the Indian v. ar un- 
der General Wayne and others, was chosen to lead the 
spies, to reconnoitre the country a-head of the detachment, 
and point out the rout of march : he was assisted* by sev- 
eral volunteer citizens from Detroit, well acquainted with 
the country. 

The detachment having drawn two day's provisions, 
being organized, and every thing prepared for the march, 
was paraded in line in order of march, as to the station of 
corps, in the main street in the town of Detroit, on the 8th 
of August, 1812, at 5 o'clock P. M. Colonel Miller then 
rode to the centre, and in front of the line, addressed 
the troops in the following words : " Soldiers, we are go- 
ing to meet the enemy, and to beat them ! The reverses 
of the 5th must be repaired ! The blood of your brethren, 
spilt by savage hands, on that day, must be avenged by 
their chastisement and by the chastisement of the enemy 
who employs them, more savage than they ! I shall leaS 
you — I trust that no man will disgrace himself or me — 
every man who is seen to leave the ranks, to sfive way or 



12 

fall back, without orders, shall instantly be put to death. 
The officers are hereby charged with the execution of 
this order. My brave soldiers ! you have once faced the 
enemy in a hard conflict, and beaten them, and gained glo- 
ry to yourselves and honor to your country ! Let this op- 
portunity be improved to add another victory to that of 
Tippacanoc^ and new glory to that which you gained on 
the Wabash. Soldiers, if there are any now in the ranks 
of this detachment, who are afraid to meet the enemy, 
they are now permitted to fall out and stay behind — *' 
At which the words " I'll not stay,'' ran through the ranks, 
with a " huzza."' 

After which the line was wheeled by sections to the 
right into open column, when Colonel Miller took his po- 
sition at the head, ard ordered the detachment to march. 
The whole moved oil in order and in high spirits, and dis- 
covered those ardent feelings to meet the conflict, which 
inspired a full confidence in the remaining army and anx- 
ious citizens, that they would be succes3fu]. 

The head of the column arrived at the river Rouge, six 
miles from Detroit, about sun set. There being no bridge, 
and the water very deep, the detachments were conveyed 
over in scows -, there being but two provided, vf hich would 
not carry more than 50 men each ; it was 10 o'clock at 
night before the troops, artillery, horses and waggons, 
were all crossed over. The weather being some^vvhat 
rainy and very dark, it was determined to encamp there 
for the night. The guards and piquets having been sta- 
tioned, and every arrangement completed for the security 
of the camp ; the men were permitted to lie down upon 
their arms and rest till day light. The tents and all other 
dispensable baggage, was left at Detroit. The troops had 
no other covering than some rails whicli they took from 
the fences, to screen them from the weather. Cooks of 
messes were directed to cook the provisions during the 
night so as to be ready to march at day break. Accor- 
dingly the troops were paraded, and every thing prepared 
to move in that order, which appeared the best calculated 
to receive or make an attack, when and wherever the ene- 
my might be met. The following is the order in which 



13 

the troops marched : Captain Maxwell, with his mounted 
spies went a-head, as a van guard, at such a distance as he 
judged prudent. An advance guard, under Captain Snel- 
ling, of ihe fourth Infantry, of 40 men of his company, 
marched in line of single rank, 200 yards in advance of, 
and covering the heads of the columns. The musquetry 
was formed m two columns of single tiles, the regulars in 
front, and marched by files by the right of columns. One 
column on eacli side of the road, at 200 yards distance 
from each other. One commanded hj Major Morrison 
and the other by Major Van Horns, of the Ohio volunteers. 
The Cavalry under Captain Sloan, marched in tlie road, 
in column ot double files by the rio-ht of column. 1 he 
head of this column kept in line witTi the Heads of the co- 
lumns of nius'juetry on the right and left. Flank guards 
were formed of riflemen, and marched by single files, headed 
by the officer commanding each, parallel with the column 
of musquetry and at the distance of 80 yards from them. 
A rear guard marched at the distance of 50 yards in the 
rear of the foot of, and covering the columns of musquet- 
ry. The artillery moved in the road, in rear of the caval- 
ry, and opposite the centre of the columns of musquetry, 
followed by the ammunition waggons, the waggons con- 
taining entrenching tools, hospital stores, medicine chests, 
&c. followed in succession. Colonel Miller marched at 
the head of the column of cavalry, accompanied by his 
aids, in the road and in a line with the heads of the co- 
lumns of musquetry. 

The method of forming the line of battle from the order 
of march, was as follows : 

In case an attack was made in front, the advance guard 
was to stand till the columns of infantry and riflemen for- 
med in lines and marched upon it. The two columns of 
infantry were to form two lines to the front ; the front 
division of each column were to form the first line, and 
the rear divisions the second line, which brought the regu- 
lar troops into the first line. The two lines were to be 
formed respectively on the centres of the divisions of co- 
lumns which were to compose them. If the first line 
should require extending, the right and left devisions of 



14 

the second line were to advance and form respectively on 
the right and left flanks of the first line. If the first line 
should not require extending, the second line was to form a 
corps of reserve. The ri^ht and left Hank guards were to 
form respectively on the right and left flanks of the front 
line. The artillery and cavalry were to move to that 
point by order of the commander in chief, which he should 
think proper to direct. The rear guard was to protect 
the wafifffons and stores. If an attack should be made in 
rear, the columns were to form lines to the rear, and 
march upon the rear guard as upon the front and so of 
other corps. If an attack should be made on either flank, 
the whole were to halt and the columns face to the ene- 
my ; and by so facing they would already be formed in 
two lines ; and the other corps would form as before di- 
rected. 

In this order the detachment marched from the en- 
campment near the river Rouge, on the morning of the 9th. 
They proceeded through the White Settlement, which was 
about five miles, and ejitered the woods. The country, from 
the river Rouge to Brownstown, is generally flat, and lies 
a little above the surface of the river Detroit. Indian huts 
and fields are interspersed through the woods : at that time 
the fields were covered with corn, which was grown to 7 
and 8 feet high. The first woods which the troops entered 
was about one mile and a half through. When the advance 
guard had arrived at the fartheredge of this WQod, the spies 
having advanced into the Indian opening, were fired upon 
by a party of about ten Indians, who were on horseback, and 
had concealed themselves behind the house of the celebra- 
ted chief, Walk-in-the-water. The spies fell back : a citi- 
zen from Detroit, who accompanied them, was killed, and 
fell from his horse. The guard under captain Snelling ad- 
vanced quickly towards the house, at sight of which, the 
Indians fled without receiving much injury from the guard, 
who fired upon them as they were uncovered by the house, 
bearing away as a trophy, the citizen's scalp whom 
they had shot. The facility with which the scalp was 
taken, was astonishing. There appeared not to have 
been time for the Indian to have reached the spot where 



15 

the man fell, before the guard arrived upon the same spot, 
when the scalp had been taken off, and the Indian fled. 
When the finng was heard by the columns, the order was 
given bj Colonel Miller to '•' Ibrm the line of battle," which 
soon ran through the detachment, and was executed 
promptly ; but as the Indians had fled, the firing ceased, 
and all was silent for a few moments. The spies were a- 
gain sent forward, but soon returned, and reported that 
no enemy could be discovered. The troops were again 
formed in the order of march and moved forward as belore. 
The firmness with which Colonel Miller conducted during 
this alarm, and his presence of mind, gave the army fresh 
courage, and increased their confidence in their comman- 
der : as also, the promptness and order with which the line 
of battle was formed, gave him reciprocal confidence in his 
troops ; for every one believed that the enemy had met 
them in force. This happened about 9 o'clock A. M. 
The march was continued until 12, without much further 
interruption. Some flying Indians were discovered now 
and then, who had been sent out by the enemy to watch 
the movements of the Americans, and to give information 
of their approach towards Brownstown ; where the ene- 
my, as appeared afterwards, then lay in ambush to receive, 
them. He had crossed over from Maiden, and taken that 
position, on the night of the 7th, the same time the Ameri- 
can detachment crossed from Sandwich to Detroit ; which 
clearly proved that he had intelligence of the movement 
and object of Colonel Miller : for all the Indians, and their 
allies^ had recrossed to Maiden, after the defeat of Major 
Van Home, to celebrate the victory and present th^ 
American scalps to the commanding officer of that fort. 
The position which the enemy had chosen, lay in an open 
oak wood, just at the declivity of a rising ground, over 
which the Americans had to pass. He had thrown up 
breastworks of trees, logs, &c. behind which he lay con- 
cealed in force, and in order of battle. His works were 
thrown up in form of a couriine with two flanks. The 
line of the courtine lay across the road and perpendicu- 
larly to it. The banks formed an angle with the couriine 
of about 120. The couriine was lined with British regu- 



16 

lar troops, two deep, of the 41st regiment of foot, under 
the command of Major Muer, of that regiment, who had 
long been in command at Maiden. The flank of the cour- 
tint, on the enemy's right, and American left, was lined 
with Canadian militia and Indians, commanded by Walk- 
in-the-water and Marpot. This line was flanked by the 
river Detroit. Most of the militia were dressed and pain- 
ted like their " brethren in arms," the savages. The 
left flank of the courtine was lined entirely by savages, un- 
der the command of the celebrated Indian wariior Tecum- 
seh, of the Shawanoese nation. The number of the Brit- 
ish regulars and militia amounted to about 300 : about 
200 regulars. The Indians amounted to 450 ; making 
the enemy's force about 750 men. 

The position and strength of the enemy were entirely 
unknown to Colonel Miller and to the army, at this time. 

At 12 o'clock, meridian, the detachment arrived at a 
large opening which contained 4 or 5 Indian houses, gar- 
dens and orchards. The army halted to take some re- 
freshment, and to bury the man who had been killed ; 
where they lay about one hour. The village was desert- 
ed, and nothing left in the houses of consequence. 

The march was again resumed at 1 o'clock P. M. and 
continued without interruption. The troops marched 
over the ground on which Major Van Home had been de- 
feated four days before ; and passed the dead bodies of 
several of the slain, and some dead horses. The body of 
captain M'Cullock lay under an Indian bark. The co- 
lumns having arrived at the oak woods near Brownstown, 
at half past three, some guns were heard a-head by them. 
In a few seconds a volley was heard from captain Snellings 
advance guard, and another instantly returned from a 
great number of pieces. The troops, by this time com- 
pletely awake, were ordered to halt. Colonel Miller rode 
towards the centre at full speed, halted, and with a firm 
voice, ordered the columns to " form the line of battle," 
which was executed with that order, promptness and zeal, 
which he had expected : after the first vollies, the firing be- 
came incessant in front. Captain Snelling stood his ground 
till the lines were formed, and moved to his relief. He 



17 

stood within pistol shot of the enemy's breastworks, in a 
shower of balls from the regular troops in his front, who 
shewed themselves after the first fire, and set up the In- 
dian yell. When the first line appeared before the breast- 
work, they received the fire of the wliole front and a part 
of the flanks : at this instant Colonel Miller discovered 
that the enemy outflanked him, when the second line and 
flank guards were brought upon the flanks of the front 
line, and extended to meet the whole line of the enemy. 
The savages, in unison with the British troops, set up a 
horrid yell, and a severe conflict ensued. Tiie incessant 
firing m the centre ran diverging to the flanks : from the 
cracking of individual pieces, it cnangcd to alternate vol- 
lies ; and at length to one continued sound : and, while 
every thing seemed hushed amidst the wavering roll, the 
discharge of the six pounder burst upon the ear. The 
Americans stood ! — At this instant Colonel Miller was 
thrown from his horse which took fright at the discharge 
of the artillery ; he was supposed to be shot, tliose near 
him flew to his aid. The savages who saw him fall sprang 
over the breastwork to take his scalp, but were driven 
back. Colonel Miller instantly remounted and returned 
to continue his orders. The nre from the Indians who 
were screened by their breastworks, was deadly. The 
soldiers saw the advantage it gave them, and Colonel Mil- 
ler, throwing his eye along the line, discovered one or 
two, edging to place themselves behind a tree. He saw 
the instant must be improved, and ordered " charge /" 
which instantly ran through the line : the men whom he 
saw edging, with every other, brought down their pieces, 
struck up a huzza ! and marched directly into the breast- 
works. The effect of the grape from the six-pounder, 
and the approach of the bayonet, caused the British line 
to yield, and then to break, and the troops fled in disor- 
der ! at nearly the same instant the Indians and militia 
on their rio-ht flank, beino- charofed in their work, bv the 
Michiojan legion, under Captain De Cant, and a part of 
the Ohio riflemen, turning this flank by the river, fled in 
confusion. Tecumseh, on the enemy's left flank, stood 
lonp-er : some of the Indians under his command, near the 

C 



18 

extremity of the line, had jumped over the breast- works^ 
III the full assurance of victory : they were driven back, 
by the point of the bayonet. Tecumseh endeavoured to 
outilank the American line, and turn their right ; but from 
the skill and gallantry of the officers, and firmness of the 
men on that flank, he was foiled in every attempt, and 
was finally forced to fall back, and take new positions, and 
fight on the retreat. The British and Indians on their 
right rlank, fled directly down the river, and were pm-sued 
by Colonel Miller, with that part of his troops which had 
opposed them ; and Tecumseh, with his Indians, fled di- 
rectly from the river, westwardly, into the wilderness, and 
were pursued by that part of the troops which had oppo- 
sed them, overtaking them who were wounded, and other- 
wise unable to escape. 

After the British had retreated about one mile, they 
came into an opening, of about half a mile in diameter ; 
here they endeavoured to form again, but on the precipitate 
approach of the Americans, they again broke and fled into 
the woods down the river. They were pursued to the 
edge of these woods, when Colonel Miller received infor- 
mation from Major Van Home, whom he had left in com- 
mand of the right flank, that Tecumseh had retreated 
westwardly, that he successively took new positions with 
his Indians, that they were still fighting, and that it was 
still doubtful how the conflict would finally terminate in 
that quarter. On the receipt of this information. Colonel 
Miller ordered the troops under his immediate command, 
to halt, and form the line. He informed the officers, that 
it would not do to pursue the enemy any farther, until he 
had heard again from the right flank. That as Te- 
cumseh had retreated in another direction, the army was 
now divided, and the two divisions, already out of hearing 
of each other's musquetry. That if Tecumseh was likely 
to overpower that division, he must send back a reinforce- 
ment to their relief, or the Indians would otherwise im- 
mediately advance upon the field of battle, and massacre 
the wounded, destroy the rear guard, and take the 
ammunition and stores ; and finally fall upon his rear. 

Information was at length brought that Tecumseh had 



19 

Jinally fled, and that the troops were returning lo join 
that division as soon as possible. 

Colonel Miller immediately ordered the troops to 
march in further pursuit of the British. They entered 
the woods, and the cavalry moved a-head at lull speed. 
When they arrived through these woods, which was a- 
bout half a mile, they came upon the beach of Lake Erie, 
and discovered the enemy all in boats, steermg to- 
wards Maiden, and out of reach of their shot. They had 
concealed their boats at this point, when they came over, 
for this purpose, if they should be defeated. This circum- 
stance however could not have been known to Colonel 
Miller before. He now ordered tiie troops to return, upon 
the field from whence they had last marched, which was 
done ; and on their arrival, they were joined by the other 
division which had returned from the pursuit of Tecumseh 
and liis Indians. 

The cause is now shewn, which has not been generally 
understood heretofore, why the British were not all cap- 
tured, when they had been so totally defeated. 

The troops were then formed in line, fronting the field 
of battle ; when Colonel Miller rode in front of the cen- 
tre, and addressed them in the following words : 

" My brave fellows ! you have done well ! every man 
has done his duty. I give you my hearty thanks for your 
conduct on this day ; you have gained my highest es- 
teem ; you have gained fresh honor to yourselves, and to 
the American arms : your fellow soldiers in arms will 
love you, and your country will reward you. You Mill re- 
turn to the field of battle to collect those who have glo- 
riously fallen ; your friendly attentions to your wounded 
companions is required." After which, detachments were 
sent out with waggons, to search the woods, and collect all 
the wounded and dead, and to bring them to the ground 
then occupied by the troops. After this was completed, 
all the Indian houses were prepared, amounting to 3 or 4, 
and the wounded moved into them, as it began to rain, and 
the surgeons were industriously employed with them, du- 
ring the whole night. The troops then encamped in or- 
der of battle, about dusk, on the bank of the river, fronting 



20 

the woods, forming three sides of a parallelogram, the 
river forming the other side. 

The time from the attack on the van guard, to the time 
of forming the line on the Indian fields, after the pursuit 
was finally ended, was two and a half hours. During this 
sharp conflict, the conduct of each individual, officer and 
soldier, was so uniformly and strictly military, that the 
commander was scarcely able to make distinctions in his 
brief and modest ofiicial report to General Hull. The 
physical powers of almostevery man, were called to action, 
and severely tried. The names of some officers only, will 
be mentioned, whosa conduct was, from concommitant cir- 
cumstances, most deeply impressed on the mind of the 
writer, in doing this, however, he wishes to be distinctly 
understood, that the conduct of many others, was equally 
meritorious. As he writes entirely from recollection, the 
impossibility at this time, of giving the names, and much 
more, the actions of every individual, will readily be con- 
ceived. Major Van Home, who had the mortification to 
be defeated on nearly the same ground, on the 5th, had 
sought and obtained a command under Colonel Miller. 
He behaved during the whole action, in a gallant and sol- 
dierly manner. Major Morrison, of the Ohio volunteers, 
also obtained a command in the detachment, of whose me- 
ritorious conduct. Colonel Miller always spoke with the 
greatest warmth of feeling ; his horse was shot under him 
at nearly the same time Colonel Miller was dismounted, 
being at that moment near together. Lieutenant Johnson, 
of the Michigan dragoons, (a small number of which corps, 
formed a part of the cavalry,) behaved in a most gallant 
manner — he had his horse shot under him. At the mo- 
ment the charge was ordered, being near Colonel Miller, 
he discovered one of his men shrink from the attack, at 
which he presented his pistol to his breast, and was on 
the point of blowing him through, when Colonel Miller 
desired him not to kill him, as he considered the battle 
was going; in their favor. Captain De Cant, and his En- 
sign M'Comb, of the Michigan legion, behaved in a man- 
ner, which would have done honor to veterans, particular- 
ly, when charging the Indians in their works, on the river 



21 

dank ; Captain De Cant was the first man, who jumped 
the breast work at that point, thereby encouraging his 
men to folloAV him. Captain Brown, of the Ohio volun- 
teers, who was on the flank opposed to Tecumseh, with 
his company, fought hard and stubborn ! his conduct was 
admired by Colonel Miller — as was the conduct of all the 
volunteers, both officers and men on that flank. Captain 
Daniel Baker, of the first regiment U. S. Infantry, had re- 
quested and obtained a command ; he was on the flank 
opposed to the Indians under Tecumseh. His gallantry, 
and the effect of his experience, contributed greatly to 
the foiling of Tecumseh, in his manceuvreing to turn that 
flank of the American line. He was shot through the 
thigh, in the warmest part of the engagement, but did 
not quit his command, till the enemy finally fled, nor the 
ground until the wounded were all brought off". Lieu- 
tenant Eastman, with the six pounder, did good execution, 
and contributed greatly to the defeat of the British troops. 
The fourth regiment behaved generally in that chival- 
rous manner, which ought to render the individuals then 
composing it, the objects of their country's warmest af- 
fections and unceasing patronage. 

These sentiments, it is believed, must be acknowledged 
by all those who are acquainted with their conduct, fa- 
tigues and hardships, during this, and the preceding cam- 
paign on the Wabash. jThey had been for eighteen 
months, almost continually traversing those wild regions 
of the north west, where perils and dangers awaited them 
through every succeeding day and night, where they were 
necessarily deprived of almost all the enjoyments and 
comforts of life, and during some portion of the time, 
of the necessary means of subsistence. They had march- 
ed during successive weeks, in mud and water, and du- 
ring successive days, without having dried their feet. 
They had now fought during this time, two of the sever- 
est battles that had ever been fought under the govern- 
ment of the United States, larger numbers had been en- 
gaged, but an equal number had never fought more des- 
perate. These battles were as much more perilous than 
usual, as the enemy were more terrible ; capture was 
massacre, and defeat was annihilation. 



22 

The conduct of Colonel Miller, it is believed, will be 
correctly appreciated from the foregoing narrative of 
facts, by his countrymen. Encomium would be insipid. 
Captain Snelling, of the advance guard, behaved in that 
heroic manner that can never be excelled : of his com- 
mand of forty men, more than twenty were killed and 
wounded. In the retreat of the enemy, he pursued on 
horseback (the remnant of his guard failing into the line,) 
bare-headed, having lost his hat in the engagement. It is 
believed it was shot away. Captains Fuller and Burton ; 
Lieutenants Peters, Hawkins, Way, Eastman, Ager, Peck- 
ham and Jjarabee, of the fourth, all conducted in the most 
gallant manner; as also did Captain Whistler, junior; 
Lieutenant Stansbury, Ensigns Whistler, M-Cabe, Cibley 
and Phillips, of the first U. S. regiment of infantry, who 
served in the fourth on that tour. 

Lieutenant Peters was wounded in the early part of the 
engagement, having been shot through the leg, the same, 
and a little below that, which had been shot through at the 
battle of Tippacanoe : Ensign Whistler was also wounded. 
Capt. Brenvort, aid to Col. Miller, behaved with that cool 
and daring intrepidity, which gained him the admiration 
of the army. Captain Hull was active, and very useful 
in carrying the orders of Colonel Miller. Lieutenant 
Charles Larabee of the fourth, was also wounded ; he 
was shot through the left arm, a little below the shoulder, 
the bone of which was broken and spht, and which was 
amputated a few days afterwards. On his falling to the 
rear, which he was persuaded to do, he found the officer 
and squad with the howitzer in difficulty. The position 
of this piece on the march, being in rear of the six 
pounder, and its ammunition waggon, and considerably in 
the rear of the centre of the columns, when the attack 
was made in front, it had not ascended the rising ground 
on which the lines formed. The enemy not being seen 
from that position, and their situation, and the nature of 
the attack, being unknown ; the piece was unlimbered and 
prepared for action, and awaited the orders of the com- 
mander in chief, agreeably to his instructions. Orders 
soon came by an aid, Captain Hull, to advance the piece 



to the front, inline with the infantry; in consequence of hav- 
ing to ascend the rising ground, the soil being soft, and 
the road somewhat obstructed by logs and roots, it was 
necessary again to limber the piece, in order to advance it 
to its intended position. At this moment, the horses be- 
ing frightened by the firing, grew frantic and unmanage- 
able, and in endeavouring to bring the limbers to the piece, 
they were run against a tree, and so twisted around it as 
to break them down. They were thrown aside, and an 
attempt made to advance the piece to the front by the 
men, with their drag ropes. In consequence of the ob- 
structions before mentioned, the men with all their exer- 
tions, were able to advance it but slowly up the rising 
ground, with the officer at the drag ropes. In this situa- 
tion, tugging up the hill. Lieutenant Larabee met them, 
when he saw their trouble, forgetting that he was hurt, 
he sprang to the piece, clinched the drag rope with his 
riffht hand, and with the o;reatest enthusiasm of feelino; 
and langruaere, he assisted m brino'inor the piece to the front. 
with his left arm swinging from its shattered point, when 
he again returned to the rear. This misfortune of the 
howitzer, deprived Colonel Miller of its use, during the 
time the British troops stood their ground. It could not 
be brought in front of the line so as to fire on the . enemy, 
without injuring the Americans, till the moment the ene- 
my's line broke as there was but ten men attached to it. 
That number being its complement in action only, could 
not advance it, under those circumstances, in time. The 
conduct of the officer commanding the piece, however, 
was applauded, and his misfortune solaced by Colonel 
Miller. In this action eighteen Americans were killed, 
and sixty three wounded, making in killed and wounded, 
eighty one ; about one man in seven who were engaged : 
not one man was captured. TJie loss of the enemy was 
ascertained to be, of Indians killed and wounded, one hun- 
dred and two, more than one half of that number were 
left dead on the field, and believed to be from the best 
information, of whites, fifty eight, total, one hundred and 
sixty : a few whites were taken prisoners. The British 
had brought over horses and sleds to carry off their kil- 



24 

led and wounded, and consequently they were mostly ta- 
ken to Maiden. The writer believes the above stated 
number of killed and wounded, of the white enemy, to be 
too small, as he saw in the hospitals at Maiden, a few 
weeks afterwards, while a prisoner of war, and on his way 
to Quebec, a great number of convalescent men: many had 
died : among whom were one or two officers of the 41st. 
regiment. He also ascertained that Major Muer, Te- 
cumseh. Blue Jacket, and other cfommanders, were woun- 
ded. 

Some time in the evening of the ninth. Captain Max- 
well returned with his spies, having been sent forward to 
the village of Brownstown, and reported, that the village 
was abandoned, and that no enemy could be discovered. 
Early next morning, August 10th, detachments were sent 
out by Colonel Miller, to scour the woods in search of 
one man who was ascertained to be still missing ; he was, 
however, found dead. While the men wiere ranging over 
the woods, one of them was shot dead. A smoke of a 
piece was discovered at a distance, lising from the ground, 
by the party — they approached the spot, and beheld an 
Indian lying on the ground wounded, and unable to stand — 
one arm and one leg were broken — he had lain there du- 
ring the night, by his piece, which was loaded when he fell. 
The cool deliberation with which he died, proved the na- 
tive fortitude of the savao;e to meet death when resis- 
tance is useless. Unwilling to endure his pains longer, 
and die by degrees, he determined to die by the hand of 
his enemies, and to sell his life to them, as dear as possi- 
ble. He summoned together the little strength which 
remained, and so steadily levelled his rifle at the approach- 
ing American, as to put the ball through his heart. 

A singular occurrence happened also, as to the death 
of an Indian, who was killed the day before during the 
battle, and near the close of it :~An officer of the fourth re- 
giment had observed two or three balls strike close to him, 
and apparently from a quarter where no enemy could be 
discovered, he told one of his men to search for the Indian 
whom he supposed concealed, and on watching for the 
discharge, he discovered it to be overhead — he looked 



25 

into the top of a tree, and saw an [ndian loading his ri- 
fle ; he took a position to fire at the savage, who discovered 
it, and made ready to fire at the soldier, but the soldier 
being a little too quick for him, put a ball through him, 
and he came tumbling down from the tree like a bear. 

The dead being all collected, on the tenth, about 10 
o'clock A. Mi were buried under an Indian house, in one 
grave, and the house burned down, to conceal from the 
savages the spot where they lay. 

At sun rise the march was resumed, and at 1 2 o'clock 
on the 12th of Auofust, the detachment re-entered the 
town of Detroit, covered with mud, from foot to head, 
their clothes not having been dried in two and a half days. 
The sun now cheered thein with its influence, they march- 
ed through the street to the encampment, to the tune of 
the soldier's return, and closed with yankee doodle. 
They were met by their brother soldiers and citizens, 
with all that sympathy and heart felt joy, which consti- 
tutes the soldier's reward, for his hard earned victory. 



SURRENDER OF HULL'S ARMY. 

Head Quarters ^ Delroit August 16, 1812. 

GENERAL ORDERS. 

It is with pain and anxiety, that Brig. General Hull 
announces to the North West Army, that he has been 
compelled from a sense of duty, to agree to the follow- 
ing articles of Capitulation. 

Camp at Detroit, Aug. 16, 1812 

Capitulation for the surrender of Fort Detroit, en- 
tered into between Major General Brock, commanding 
His Britannic Majesty's forces, on the one part, and 
Brig. Gen. Hull, commanding the N. Western Army 
of the United States, on the other part. 

}st. Fort Detroit, with all the troops, regulars as well 
as militia, will be immediately surrendered to the 
British forces under the command of ^Major Gen- 

D 



2G 

eral Brock, and will be considered as prisoners of 
war, with the exception of such of the militia of Mi- 
chigan Teiritorj who have not joined the army. 

2nd. All the public slores, arms, and all public do- 
cuments, including every thing of a public nature, 
will be immediately given up. 

3d. Private persons and property of every descrip- 
tion, will be respected. 

Ath. His Excellency Brig. General Hull, having ex- 
pressed a desire that a detachment from the state of 
Ohio, on its way to join his army, as well as one sent 
from Fort Detroit, under the command of Colonel 
M'Arthur, should be included in the above capitula- 
tion, it is accordingly agreed to ; it is however to be 
understood, that such part of the Ohio Militia, as have 
not joined the army, will be permitted to return to 
their homes, on condition that they will not serve du- 
ring the war ; their arms, however, will be delivered 
up, if belonging to the public. 

5//i. The garrison will march out at the hour of 12 
o'clock this day, and the British forces will take im- 
mediate possession of the fort. 

J. M'DONEL, Lt. Col. Militia, P. A. D. C. 
J. B. GLEGG, Major, A. D. D. 
JAS. MILLER, Lt. Col. 5th U. S. Infantry. 
E. BRUSH, Col. 1st. Regt. Michigan Militia. 

Approved. 

W. HULL, Brig. Gen. Comdg. U. S. Army. 
ISAAC BROCK, Major General. 

OFFICIAL. 

From General Brock to Sir George Prevost— dated 
Detroit, 16 August, 1812. 

Sir I hasten to apprise your Excellency of the cap- 
ture ot this very important post; 2500 troops have 
this day surrendered prisoners of war, and about 25 
pieces of ordnance have been taken without the sacri- 
hce of a drop of British blood. I had not more than 
/OO troops including militia, and about 600 Indians, to 



27 

accomplish this service. When I detail my good for- 
tune, your Excellency will he astonished. 

ISAAC BROCK, Major General. 
To His Ex. Lieut. Gen. Sir GEO. PRE VOST. 



CAPTURE OF THE SLOOP OF WAR ALERT. 

^opy of a letter received at the Navy Department, from Captain Por- 
ter, of the United States Frigate Essex\'of 32 Guns. 

At Sea, August 17,1812. 

Sir, I have the honor to inform you that upon the 
i3th, his B. M. sloop of war Alert, Captain T. L. P. 
Laugharne, ran down on our weather quarter, gave 
three cheers and commenced an action, (if so triflino- 
a skirmish deserves the name,) and after eight minutes' 
firing, struck her colours witli 7 feet water in her hold, 
much cut to pieces, and 3 men wounded. 

I need not inform that the officers and crew of the 
Essex, behaved as I trust all Americans will in such 
cases, and it is only to be regretted that so much zeal 
and activity could not have been displayed on an oc- 
casion that would have done them more honor ; the 
Essex has not received the slightest injury. The Alert 
was out for the purpose of taking the Hornet ! 
I have the honor, &;c. 

Hon. p. HAMILTON. D. POUTER. 



CAPTURE OF THE GUERRIER. 

United States Frigate Constitution. 

off Boston LigJit,Augtist 30th. IS 12. 

Sir, I have the honor to inform you, that on the 19th 
inst. at 2 P. M. being in lat. 41, 42, and long. 55, 
48, with the Constitution under my command, a sail 
was discovered from the mast head, bearing E. by S. 
or S. S. E. but at such a distance we could not tell 
what she was ; all sail was made in chase, and soon 



28 

found we come up with her; at 3, P. M. cotild plainly 
see that she was a ship, on the starboard tack, under easy 
sail, close on a wind ; at half past 3, P. M. made her out 
to be a frigate ; continued the chase until we were with- 
in about 3 miles, wlien I ordered the light sails taken in, 
the courses hauled up, and the ship cleared for action ; 
at this ti?T^e the chase had backed her main-top-sail wait- 
ing for Us to cojne down. As soon as the Constitution 
was ready for action, I bore down with an intention to 
bring her to close action immediately ; but on our 
coming v/ithin gun shot, she gave us a broadside and 
fillefl awav, m^d wore, and giving us a broadpide on 
the other tack, but without effect ; her shot fell short. 
She continued wearing and manoeuvring for about three 
quarters of an hour, to get a raking position, but find- 
ing si;e could not, she i^ore up and ran under her topsails 
and jib with the wind on the quarter. 1 immediately 
made sail to bring the ship up with her, and at 5 mi- 
nutes before 6 P. M. being along side within half pistol 
shot, we commenced a heavy fire from all our guns, 
double fcfiotted with round and grape, and so well di- 
rected were they, and so warmly kept up, that in 15 
minutes her mizen mast Avent by the board, and her 
main yard in ihs sl?ngs, and the hull rigging and sails 
very much torn to pieces ; the fire was kept up w4th 
equal warmth for \b minutes longer, when her main 
mast went, taking with it every spar except the bow- 
sprit ; on seeing this we ceased firing, so that in tJiirty 
mmutcSy after we got fairly alongside the enemy, she sur- 
rendered, and had not a spar standing, and her hull be- 
low and above water so shattered, that a few more 
broadsides mu^t have carried her down 

After informing you thai so fuie a ship as the Guer- 
rier, coraiuanded by an able and experienced officer, 
had been t'>ta'lY dismasted, and otherwise cut to pieces, 
so as to make her not worth towing into port, in the 
short space of ihirtv minutes, you can have no doubt 
of the gallantry and good conduct of the officers and 
ship\^ company, I have the honor to command ; it only 
remains therefore for me to assure you that they all 
fought with great bravery ; and it gives me great plea- 



S9 

sure to say, that from the smalJest boy in the ship, to 
the oldest seaman, not a look of fear was seen ; they 
all went into action ^ivinsf three cheers, and requesting 
to be laid close along side the enemy. Enclosed I 
have the honor to send you a list of the killed and 
wounded on board the Constitution, and a report of the 
damages she has sustained, also a list of killed and 
wounded on board the enemy, with his quarter bill. 
I have the honor, &c. 

ISAAC HULL. 
Keturn of killed and wounded on board the United 
States Frigate Constitution, Isaac Hull, Esq. Captain, 
in the action with his B. M. S. Guerrier, Jas. K. Dacres, 
Esq, Capt. on the 19th Aug, 1812. 

Killed — Lieut. W. S. Brush, and 6 seamen, 7 

Wounded — Lieut. Ch. Morris, and 6 seamen, 7 

Total killed and wounded, 14 

List of the killed and wounded on board the Guerrier. 
Killed — Lieut. Ready and 38 others 39 

Wounded — Capt. Dacres and 60 others 61 

Total killed and rvoundedin the Guerrier. 100 

I. HULL, Capt. 
L J. CHEW, Purser. 

Note. — The following Challenge was written on the face of the 
John Adam's register, a few days previous to the abore action ; — 

" The Guerrier, 44 guns, 300 men, will be happy to see the Presi- 
dent, Commodore Rodgers, outside the Hook, or any other large 
Frigate, to have a sociable tete-a-tete" 



ATTACK ON FORT HARRISON. 

Letter from Z. Taylor, commanding Fort Harrison, {In. Territory,) 
to General Harrison. 
Dated, Fort Harrison September lOth, 1812. 

Sir, On Thursday evening, the 3d inst. after retreat 
beating, four guns were heard to fire in the direction 
where two young men (citizens who resided here,) 
were making hay, about 400 yards distant from the 



30 

fort ; I was immediately impressed with an idea that 
they were killed by the Indians, as the Miamies or 
Waes had that day informed me, that the Prophet's 
party would soon be here, for the purpose of commen- 
cing hostilities ; and that they had been directed to 
leave this place, which they were about to do. I did 
not think it prudent to send out at that late hour of 
the night to see what become of them ; and their not 
coming in, convinced me that I was right in nny conjec- 
ture ; 1 waited until 8 o'clock next morning, when I 
sent out a corporal, with a small party, to find them, if 
it could be done without running too much risque of 
being drawn into an ambuscade ; he soon sent back 
to inform me that he had found them both killed, and 
wished to know my further orders i I sent the cart and 
oxen, and had them brought in and buried; they had been 
each shot with two balls, scalped and cut in the most 
shocking manner Late in the evening of the 4th inst. 
Joseph Lenar, and between 30 and 40 Indians, arrived 
from Prophet's town with a white flag, among whom 
were about 10 women, and the men were composed of 
chiefs of the different tribes that compose the Prophet's 
party. 

A Shawone man, that spoke good English, informed 
me that old Lenar intended to speak to me next mor- 
ning, and try to get something to eat ; at retreat beat- 
ing, I examined the men's arms, and found them all in 
good order, and completed their cartridges to 16 rounds 
per man — as I had not been able to mount a guard of 
more than 6 privates and two non-commissioned offi- 
cers, for some time past, and sometimes part of them 
every other day, from the unhealthiness of the com- 
pany, I had not conceived my force adequate to the 
defence of this post, should it be vigourously attack- 
ed, for some time past ; as I had just recovered from 
a very severe attack of the fever, I was not able to be 
up much through the night — after taptoo, I cautioned 
the guards to be vigilant, and ordered one of the non- 
commissioned officers, (as the centinels could not see 
€very part of the garrison,) to walk around the inside, 
during the whole night, to prevent the Indians taking 



31 

any advantage of us, provided they had any intention 
of attacking us. About eleven o'clock I was awakened 
by the firing of the centinels ; I sprang up, ran out 
and ordered the men to their posts, when my orderly 
Serjeant, who had charge of the block-house, called out 
that the Indians had lired the lower block-house, 
which contained the property of the contractor, which 
was deposited in the lower part, the upper having been 
assigned to a corporal and 10 privates, as an alarm 
post ; the guns had began to fire pretty smartly from 
both sides — I directed the buckets to be got ready, and 
water brought from the well, and the fire extinguished 
immediately, as it was hardly perceivable at that time ; 
but from debility, or some other cause, the men were 
very slow in executing my orders, the word appeared 
to throw them all into confusion ; and by the time 
they had got the water, and broke open the door, the 
fire had communicated to a quantity of whiskey ; 
and in spite of every exertion we could make 
use of, in less than a moment, it ascended to the 
roof, and baffled every effort we could make to extin- 
guish it. As that block-house adjoined the barracks 
that make part of the fortifications, most of the men 
immediately gave themselves up for lost, and I had 
the greatest difficulty in getting any of my orders ex- 
ecuted, and sir, from the raging of the fire, the yelling 
and howling of several hundred Indians, the cries of 9 
women and children who had taken shelter in the fort, 
and the desponding of so many of the men, (which was 
worse than all,) I can assure you, that my feelings were 
unpleasant, indeed there were not more than 10 or 15 
men able to do a great deal, the others being either sick 
or convalescent, and to add to our misfortunes, two of 
the stoutest men of the fort, and that I had every con- 
fidence in, jumped the picket and left us. But my pre- 
sence of mind did not for a moment forsake me ; I 
saw by throwing off part of the roof that joined the 
block-house that w as on fire, and keeping the end per- 
fectly wet, the whole row of buildings might be saved, 
and leave only an entrance of 1 8 or 20 feet for the In- 
dians to enter after the house was consumed ; and that 



32 

a temporary breast-work might be erected, to prevent 
even their entering there. I convinced the men that 
this could be accomplished, and it appeared to inspire 
them with new life, and never did men act with more 
firmness or desperation ; those that were able, (while 
the others kept up a lire from the other block-house and 
the two bastions,) mounted the roofs of the houses, with 
Doctor Clarke, at their head (who acted with the great- 
est firmness and presence of mind, the whole time the 
attack lasted, which was eight hours under a shower of 
bullets,) and in a moment ti-rew off as much of the 
roof as was necessary, this was done with the loss of one 
man only, and two wounded, neither of them danger- 
ously, the man that was killed was a little deranged, 
and did not get off the house as soon as directed, or he 
would not have been hurt ; and altho' the barracks 
were several times in a blaze, the men used such exer- 
tions, that they kept it under; and before day light, rai- 
sed a temporary breastwork as high as a man's head, 
altho' the Indians continued to pour in a heavy fire of 
ball, and an innumerable quantity of arrows, diu'ing the 
whole time the attack lasted, in every part of the pa- 
rade. 

I had but one other man killed, nor any other wound- 
ed inside the fort, and he lost his life by being too 
anxious ; he got into one of the gailies in the bastions 
and fired over the pickets, and called to his comrades 
that he had killed an Indian, and neglecting to stoop 
down, in an instant he was shot dead ; one ot the men 
that jumped the picket, returned an hour before day, 
and running towards the gate, begged for God's sake it 
might be opened ; I suspected it to be a stratagem of 
the Indians to get in ; as I did not recollect the voice, I 
directed the men in the bastion where [ happened to be, 
to shoot him, let him be who he would, and one of them 
fired at him, but fortunately he ran up to the other 
bastion, where they knew his voice, and Doctor Clarke 
directed him to lie down close to the pickets behind 
an empty barrel that happened to be there, and at day- 
light I had him let in ; his arm was broke in a most 
shocking manner, which he says was done by the In- 



33 

dians, and which I suppose was the cause of his returning. 
The other man, they caught about 120 yards from the 
garrison, and cut him all to pieces. After keeping up a 
constant fire, until about six o'clock the next morning, 
which we began to return with some effect, after day, 
light, they removed out of the reach of our guns ; a 
party of them drove up the horses that belonged to the 
citizens here, and as they could not catch them very 
readily, shot the whole of them, in our sis^ht, as well 
as a number of their hogs; they drove off the whole of 
the cattle, which amounted to 65 head, with the public 
oxen. I had the vacancy filled up before night, (which 
was occasioned by the burning the block-house,) with 
a strong row of pickets, which I got by pulling down 
the guard house. We lost the whole of our provisions, 
but must make out to live upon green corn until we 
can get a supply, which I hope will not be long. I 
believe the whole of the Miamies or Waes, were with 
the prophet's party, as one cliief gave his orders in that 
language, which resembled Stone-eater's voice, and I 
believe Negro-legs, was there likewise ; a Frenchman 
here understands their different languages, and several 
of the Waes that have been frequently here, were re- 
cognized by the soldiers next morning ; the Indians 
suffered smartly, but were so numerous as to take off 
all that were shot ; they continued with us until the next 
morning, but made no further attempt on the fort, nor 
have we seen any thing more of them since. 

His Ex. Gov. Harrison. Z. TAYLOR. 

(Captain Taylor received a Majority for his bravery 
in the above affair.) 



BATTLE OF QUEENSTOWN. 

Copy of a letter frotji Major General Van Ranscllaer, of the New-York 
militia, to Major General Henry Dearborn, transmitted by the lat- 
ter, to the Department of War. 

Head Quarters, Levvistown, October 14, 1812. 
Sir, — As the movements of the army under my com- 
mand, since I had last the honor to address you, on the 

E 



3i 

8(li inst. have been of a very important character, pro- 
ducing consequences serious to many individuals ; es- 
tablislung facts actually connected with the interest 
of the service, and the safety of the army ; and as I 
stand prominently responsible for some of these con- 
sequences, 1 beg leave to explain to you sir, and 
through you, to my country, the situation and circum- 
stances, and the reasons and motives which governed 
me ; and if the result is not all that might have been 
wished, it is sucli, that when the whole ground shall be re- 
viewed, I shall cheerfully submit myself to the judg- 
ment of my country. 

In my letter of the 8th inst. I apprized you, that a 
crisis in this campaign was rapidly advancing, and that 
(to repeat the same words,) " the blow must be 
soon struck, or all the toil and expence of the cam- 
paign go for nothing ; and worse than nothing, for the 
whole will be tinged with dishonor." 

Under such impressions 1 had, on the 5th inst. written 
to Brig. Gen. Smyth, of the U. States forces, request- 
ing an interview with him. Major Gen. Hall, and the 
commandants of the U. States regiments, for the pur- 
pose of conferring upon the subject of future opera- 
tions. 

I wrote Major Gen. Hall, to the same purport ; on 
the 11th. I had received no answer from Gen. Smyth ; 
but in a note to me of the 10th. Gen. Hall mentioned 
that Gen. Smyth had not then agreed upon any day 
for the consultation. 

In the mean time, the partial success of Lieut. Elliott, 
at Black Rock, (of which, however, I have received no 
official information) began to excite a strong disposi- 
tion in the troops to act ; this was expressed to me 
through various channels in the shape of an alternative ; 
that they must have orders to act ; or at all hazards they 
would go home. I forbear commenting here upon the 
obvious consequences to me, personally, of longer 
withholding my orders under such circumstances. 

I had a conference with , as to the possi- 
bility of getting some person to pass over to Canada, 
and obtain correct information. On the morning of tiie 



35 

4th. lie wrote to me that he had procured the rnan who 
bore his letter to go over ; instructions were given 
him, lie passed over, obtained such information as war- 
ranted an immediate attack. This was confidentially 
communicated to several of my first officers, and pro- 
duced great zeal to act ; more especially, as it might 
have a controlling effect upon the movements at De- 
troit, where it was supposed General Brock was gone, 
with all the force he dared spare from the Niagara 
frontier ; the best preparations in my power were 
therefore made, to dislodge the enemy, from the heiglits 
of (iueenstown, and possess ourselves of the village, 
where the troops might be sheltered from the distress- 
ing inclemency of the weather. — Lie.ut. Col. Fenwick's 
flying artillery, and a detachment of regular troops 
under his command, were ordered to be up in season 
from fort Niagara ; orders were also sent to Gen. Smytii, 
to send down from Bufi'aloe, such a detachment of 
his brigade, as existing circumstances in that vicinity 
might warrant ; the attack was to have been made at 4 
o'clock on the morning of the nth. by crossing over 
in boats, from the old ferry, opposite the heights ; to 
avoid any embarrassment in crossing the river, (which 
is here a sheet of violent eddies,) experienced boatmen 
were procured, to take the boats from the landing be- 
low, to the place of embarkation ; Lieut. Sim, was 
considered the man of greatest skill for this service ; 
he went ahead, and, in the extreme darkness, passed the 
intended place far up the river, and there, in a most ex- 
traordinary manner, fastened his boat to the shore, and 
abandoned the detachment. In this front boat^ he had 
carried nearly every oar^ which was prepared for (sll the 
boats : in this ao-onizlnof dilemma stood officers and men. 
whose ardour had not been cooled by exposure, through 
the night, to one of the most tremendous N. East storms, 
which continued unabated for twenty-eight hours, and 
deluged the whole camp : the approach of day light ex- 
^nguished every prospect of success, and the detachment 
returned to camp. Col. Van Ransellaer was to have 
commanded the detachment. 



36 

After this result, I had hoped the patience of the troops 
Would have continued until I could submit the plan, sug- 
gested in my letter of the 8th, that I might act under, and 
m conformity to the opinion which might be then ex- 
pressed ; but my hope was idle : — the previously excited 
ardour seemed to have gained new heat from the late 
miscarriage — the brave were mortified to stop short of 
their object, and the timid thought laurels half won by the 
attempt. 

Viewing the affairs at Buffaloe as yet unsettled, I had 
immediately countermanded the march of Gen. Smyth's 
brigade, upon the failure of the first expedition; but hav- 
ing now determined to attack Queenstown, I sent new 
orders to Gen. Smyth, to march; not with a view of his 
aid in the attack, (for I considered the force detached 
sufficient) but to support the detachment, should the con- 
flict be obstinate and long continued. 

Lieut. Col. Christie, who had arrived at 4 mile creek, 
had, late in the night of the first contemplated attack, gal- 
lantly offered me his own and his men's service, but he 
got my permission too late : — he now again came forward, 
had a conference with Col. Van Ransellaer, and begged 
that he might have the honor of a command in the expe- 
dition : the arrangement was made ; Col. Van Ransellaer 
was to command one column of 300 militia, and Lieut. 
Col. Christie a column of the same number of regular 
troops. 

Every precaution was now adopted, as to boats ; and 
the most confidential and experienced men to manage 
them. At an early hour in the night, Lieut. Col. Christie 
marched his detachment, by the rear road, from Niagara 
to camp : at 7 in the evening, Lieut. Col. Stranahan's re- 
giment moved from Niagara falls ; at 8 o'clock. Mead's ; 
at 9, Lieut. Col. Elan's regiment marched from the same 
place — all were in camp in good season. Agreeably to 
my orders, issued on this occasion, the two columns were 
to pass over together ; and, as soon as the heights should 
be carried, Lieut. Col. Fenwick's flying artillery was to 
pass over ; then Major Mullany's detachment of regulars, 
and the other troops, to follow in order. 



37 

At dawn of day the boats were in readiness, and the 
troops commenced embarking under the cover of a com- 
manding battery, mounting 2 eighteen pounders, and 2 
sixes. The movement was soon discovered, and a brisk 
fire of musquetry was poured from the whole hue of the 
Canada shore. Our battery then opened to sweep the 
shore ; but it was, for some minutes, too dark to direct 
much lire with safety. A brisk cannonade was now open- 
ed upon the boats, from three different batteries ; our 
battery retarned their fire, and occasionally threw grape 
upon the slwre, and was itself served with shells from a 
smaii mortar of the enemys. Col. Scott, of the artillery, 
by hastenino: his march from Niao;ara falls, in the nig-ht, 
arrived m season to return the enemy's fire with 2 six 
pounders. 

The boats were somewhat embarrassed by the eddies, 
as wei' as with a shower of shot ; but Col. Van Ransellaer, 
with about one hundred men, soon effected his landing 
amidst a tremendous fire, directed upon him from every 
point ; but to the astonishment of all who witnessed the 
scene, this van of the column advanced slowly against the 
fire. It was a serious misfortune to the van, and indeed 
to the whole expedition, that in a few minutes after land- 
ing. Col. Van Ransellaer received four wounds ; a ball 
passed through his right thigh, entering just below the 
nip bone — another shot passed through the same thigh, 
a little below; the third through the calf of his left leg, 
and a fourth contused his heel. This was quite a crisis 
in the expedition; under so severe a fire, it was difficult 
to form raw troops. By some mismanagement of the 
boatmen, Lieut. Col. Christie did not arrive until sometime 
after this, and was wounded in the hand in passing the 
river. Col. Van Ransellaer was still able to stand ; and, 
with great presence of mind, ordered his officers to pro- 
ceed, and storm the fort : this service was gallantly per- 
formed, and the enemy driven down the hill in every 
direction. Soon after this, both parties were considerably 
reinforced, and the conflict was renewed in various places ; 
many of the enemy took shelter behind a stone guard- 
house, where a piece of ordnance was now briskly served. 



3B 

I ordered the fire of our battery directed upon the guard- 
house ; and, it was so etFectually done, that, with eight or 
ten shot, the fire was silenced. The enemy then retreat- 
ed behind a large store-house ; but, in a short time, the 
rout became general, and the enemy's fire was silenced, 
except from a one gun battery, so far down the river as 
to be out of the reach of our heavy ordnance, and our 
light pieces could not silence it. A number of boats now 
passed over unanoyed, except from the one unsilenced 
gun. For some time after 1 had passed over, the victory 
appeared complete ; but, in the expectation of furth^^^^r at- 
tacks, I was taking measures for fortifying my camp im- 
mediately : the direction of this service I committed to 
Lieut. Totten, of the engineers ; but very soon the ene- 
my were reinforced by a detachment of several hundred 
Indians, from Chippewa — they commenced a furious at- 
tack, but were promptly met, and routed by the rifle and 
bayonet. By this time I perceived my troops were em- 
barking very slowly ; I passed immediately over, to accel- 
erate their movements ; but to my utter astonishment, I 
found that, at the very moment when complete victory 
was in our hands, the ardor of the unengaged troops had 
entirely subsided. I rode in all directions — urged men, 
by every consideration, to pass over ; but in vain. Lieut. 
Col. Bloom, who had been wounded in action, returned, 
mounted his horse, and rode through the camp ; as did 
also Judge Peck, who happened to be here, exhorting the 
companies to proceed ; but all in vain. At this time a 
large reinforcement from Fort George were discovered 
coming up the river. As the battery on the hill was con- 
sidered an important check against their ascending the 
heights, measures were immediately taken to send them a 
fresh supply of ammunition, as I had learnt there were 
only left twenty shot, for 18 pounders. The reinforce- 
ments, however, obliqued to the right from the road, and 
formed a junction with the Indians, in the rear of the 
heights. Finding, to my infinite mortification, that no re- 
inforcement would pass over — seeing that another severe 
conflict would soon commence ; and knowing that the 
brave men on the heights were quite exhausted, and near- 



ly out of ammunition, all I could do was to send them a 
fresh supply of cartridges. 

At this critical moment, I dispatched a note to Gen, 
Wadsworth, acquainting him with our situation — leaving 
the course to be pursued much to his own judgment, with 
assurance that, if he thought best to retreat, I would send 
as many boats as I could command, and cover his retreat 
by every hre I could safely make : — but the boats were 
dispersed ; many of the boatmen had fled, panic struck, 
and but few got off. But my note could but have little 
more than reached Gen. Wadsworth, about 4 o'clock, 
v^hen a severe and obstinate conflict commenced, and con- 
tinued about half an hour, with a tremendous fire of can- 
non, flying artillery, and musquetry. The enemy suc- 
ceeded in repossessing their battery, and gaining advan- 
tage on every side ; the brave men who had gained die 
victory, exhausted of strength and ammunition, and griev- 
ed at the unpardonable neglect of their soldiers, gave up 
the conflict. 

I can only add, that the victory was really won — but 
lost for the want of a small reinforcement ; one third j^art 
of the idle men might have saved all ! 

I cannot, in justice, close this, without expressing the 
very great obligation I am under to Brig. Gen. Wads- 
worth, Col. Van Ransellaer, Lieut. Colonels Christie and 
Fenwick, and Capt Gibson. Many others have also be- 
haved most gallantly. As I have reason to believe that 
many of our troops fled to the woods, with the hope of 
crossing the river, I have not been able to learn the pro- 
bable number of killed, wounded, and prisoners: the 
slaughter of our trpops must have been very considerable, 
and the enemy have suffered severely ; Gen. Brock is 
among their slain, and his aid-de-camp mortally wounded. 
I have the honor to be, &c. 

STEPHEN VAN RANSELLAER, 

Major Gen. 

Major General BE AH RORN. 



40 

RUPTURE WITH ALGIERS. 

On hoard the ship Allegany, 

At sea y July 25, 1812. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform you that, on the 17th 
of this month, the ship Allegany, Ebenezer Eveleth, mas- 
ter, arrived at Algiers, from the U. States, with a cargo of 
naval and mihtary stores, for the regency, in fulfilment of 
treaty stipulations ; and that, on the 20th inst. when they 
had bee^an to discharge their cargo, I received a message 
from the Dey, informing me that he would not receive the 
same ; saying, that the articles were not such, in quantity 
or quality, as he expected ; and that the ship should leave 
the regency immediately, with myself, and all other Ame- 
rican citizens in Algiers. — Every proper measure was 
taken to prevent the execution of this order, and to re- 
store the former good understanding, but without effect ; 
and I left Algiers this morning, in the ship Allegany, with 
my family, and all other citizens of the United States, then 
in Algiers. 

On the 13th inst. a squadron of cruisers sailed from Al- 
giers to the eastward, consisting of 5 frigates, 3 corvettes, 
2 brigs, 1 Xebec, 1 schooner, 1 row galley, and 5 gun- 
boats ; and there is reason to apprehend that they had 
orders to capture American vessels. 

I have the honor, &;c. 

TOBIAS LEAR. 

To the Consuls, SCc. 



AFFAIR AT ST. REGIS. 

Head Quarters, Camp French Mills, 

24:th October, 1812. 

On the 22d I dispatched several confidential friends, to 
reconnoitre about the village of St. Regis ; they returned 
with the information, that the enemy had landed in the 
village, and that we might expect a visit from them imme- 
diately. Their number was stated by no one at less than 



41 

no, and from that to 300 ; the most certain information 
fixed on the former number. 

It was also believed that the enemy determined to make 
a stand at that place, and would speedily increase their 
number : this determined me to make an attempt to take 
out those already landed, before any reinforcement could 
arrive. I ordered the men to be furnished with two days 
rations of provisions, with double rations of whiskey; and 
at 11, at night, we marched out with the utmost silence, 
that we might give as little alarm as possible. We took 
a circuitous route, through the woods, and arrived at 
Gray's Mills, at half past 3, A. M. We found here, a boat, 
canoe, and two cribs of boards ; Capt. Lyon's comjiany 
crossed in the boats ; Capt. M'Neil's, in the canoe, and the 
remainder, with our horses, crossed on the cribs. We 
arrived, within half a mile of the village, at 5 o'clock; 
where, being concealed from the enemy by a little rise of 
ground, we halted to reconnoitre, refresh the men, and 
make our disposition for the attack, wiiich was arranged 
in the following order : — Capt. Lyon w^as detached from 
the right, with orders to take the road, running along the 
bank of the St. Regis river, with directions to gain the 
rear of Capt. Montaigny's house, in which, and Donally's, 
the enemy were said to be quartered. Capt. Tilden was 
detached to the St. Lawrence, with a view of gaining the 
route of Donally's house, and also securing the enemy's 
boats, to prevent their retreat. With the remainder of 
the force, I moved on in front, and arrived within a hun- 
dred and fifty yards of Montaigny's house, when I found, 
by the firing, that Capt. Lyon was engaged. At the same 
instant, I discovered a person passing in the front, and or- 
dered him to stand ; but not being obeyed, ordered Capt. 
Higbie's first platoon to fire, and the poor fellow soon fell; 
he proved to be the Ensign, named in the list of killed. 
The firing was at an end in an instant, and we soon found 
in our possession 40 prisoners, with their arms, &c. — 4 
killed — 1 wounded mortally ; took 1 stand of colours, 2 
batteaux, 28 guns — 40 men. 

, After searching in vain for further military stores, we 
crossed the river at the village, and returned to camp by 

F 



42 

the nearest route, where we arrived at 11, A. M. — the 
batteaux, witli baggage, &c. arrived a few minutes before 
us. We had not a man hurt. — I cannot close this letter, 
without stating to jour excellency, that the officers and 
soldiers, for their conduct on this occasion, deserve the 
highest encomiums ; for, so strict was their attention to 
duty and orders, that we entered the place without even 
being heard by the Indians' dogs. The prisoners I have 
just sent off to Plattsburgh, to await the disposition of 
vour excellency. 

I am, &;c. 
G. D. YOUNG, 3Iajor, 
Commanding troops at French Mills. 
Brig. Gen, Bloomfield. 



AFFAIR ON LAKE ONTARIO. 

Sachet's Harbor y l^tk Nov. 1812. 
SIR — I arrived here last evening in a gale of wind, the 
pilots having refused to keep the Lakes. On the 8th, I 
fell in with the Royal George, and chased her into the 
Bay of Quanti, where I lost sight of her, in the night. In 
the morning of the 9th, we again got sight of her, lying 
in Kingston channel. We gave chase, and follow^ed her 
in the harbor of Kingston, where we engaged her and the 
batteries, for one hour and forty-five minutes. I had made 
up my mind to board her ; but she was so well protected 
by the batteries, and the wind blowing directly in, it was 
deemed imprudent to make the attempt at that time ; the 
pilots alsoT^fused to take charge of the vessels. Under 
these circumstances, and it being after sun-down, I deter- 
mined to haul off, and renew the action the next morning. 
We beat up, in good order, under a heavy fire from the 
Royal George and batteries, to 4 mile point, where we 
anchored ; it blew heavy, in squalls, from the westward, 
during the night, and there was every appearance of a 
gale of wind : the pilots became alarmed, and I thought 
it most prudent to get into a place of more safety — I there- 
fore deferred renewing the attack, upon the ships and 



43 

forts, until a more favourable opportunity. — At 7, A. M. 
on the 10th, I made the signal to weigh, and we beat out 
of a very narrow channel, under a very heavy press of 
sail, to the open Lake. At 10, we fell in with the Gov. 
Simcoe, runmng for Kingston, and chased her into the 
harbor ; she escaped by running over a reef of rocks, un- 
der a heavy fire from the Gov. Tompkins, the Hamilton, 
and the Julia, which cut her very much : all her people 
ran below, while under the fire of these vessels ; the 
Hamilton chased her into 9 feet water, before she hauled 
otF. In our passage through the bay of Quanti, I disco- 
vered a schooner at the villag-e of Arminsfston, which we 
took possession of; but finding she would detain us, (be- 
ing then in chase of the Royal George) I ordered Lieut. 
M'Pherson to take out her sails and rigging, and burn her, 
which he did. We also took the schooner Mary Hall, 
from Niagara, at the mouth of Kingston Harbor, and took 
her with us, to our anchorage. The next morning, find- 
ing she could not beat through the channel with us, I or- 
dered the sailing master, in the Growler, to take her un- 
der convoy, and run down past Kingston, anchor on the 
east end of Long-Island, and Avait foi- a wind, to come up 
on the east side ; I was also in hopes, that the Royal 
George might be induced to follow, for the purpose of re- 
taking our prize ; but her commander was too well aware 
of the consequences, to leave his moorings. We lost, in 
this affair, one man killed, and three slightly w^ounded, 
with a few shot through our sails. The other vessels lost 
no men, and received but little injury in their hull and sails, 
with the exception of the Pert, whose gun bursted in the 
early part of the action, and w^ounded her commander 
badly, and a midshipman, and three men, slightly. Mr. 
Arundel, wiio refused to quit the deck, although wound- 
ed, was knocked overboard, and drowned, in beating up 
to our anchorage. The Royal George must have receiv- 
ed very considerable injury, in her hull, and in men, as 
the gun vessels, with a long 32 pounder, w^ere seen to 
strike her, almost every shot ; and, it was observed, that 
she was reinforced with troops, four different times, dur- 
ing the action. I have great pleasure in saying, that the 



44 

officers and men, on board of every vessel, behaved with 
the utmost coohiess, and are extremely anxious to meet 
the enemy on the open Lake ; and, as long as I have the 
honor to command such officers and men, I can have no 
doubt of the result. — I think I can say, with great proprie- 
ty, that we have now the command of the Lake ; and that 
we can transport troops and stores, to any part of it, with- 
out any risk of an attack from the enemy. Although the 
whole of his na\al force was not collected at Kingston, 
yet, the force, at the difierent batteries, would more than 
counterbalance the vessels that were absent ; it was 
thought, by all the officers in the squadron, that the ene- 
my had more than 30 guns, mounted at Kingston, and 
from 1000 to 1500 men. 

The Royal George, protected by this force, was driven 
into the inner harbor, under the protection of the mus- 
quetry, by the Oneida, and 4 small schooners, fitted out 
as gun-boats. 

I have the honor to be, &c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 

The Hon. P. Hamilton. 



THE WASP AND FROLIC. 

Copy of a letter from Captain Jones, late of the U. States'' sloop 
of war Wasp, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

New- York, 2ilh Nov. 1812. 

SIR — I here avail myself of the first opportunity, of in- 
forming you of the occurrences of our cruise, which ter- 
minated in the capture of the Wasp, on the 1 8th of Oct. 
by the Poictiers, 74 guns, while a wreck, from damages 
received in an engagement with the British sloop of war 
Frolic, of 22 guns ; sixteen of them 32lb, carronades, and 
four 12 pounders, on the main deck, and two 12 pounders, 
carronades, on the top-gallant forecastle, making her supe- 
rior in force to us, by four 12 pounders. The Frolic had 
struck to us, and was taken possession of, about two 
hours before our surrendering to the Poictiers. 



45 

We had left the Delaware, on the 13tli — the 16th, had 
a heavy gale, in which we lost our jib-boom, and two men. 
Half past eleven, on the night of the 17th, in the lat. of 
37" north, ion. 65" west, we saw several sail, two of them 
appearing very large ; we stood from them, for some time ; 
then shortened sail and steered, the remainder of the night, 
the course we had perceived them on. At day day-light, 
on Sunday the 18th, we saw them ahead — gave chase, 
and soon discovered them to be a convoy, of six sail, un- 
der the protection of a sloop of war; four of their large 
ships mounting from 16 to 18 guns. At 32 minutes past 
11, A. M. we engaged the sloop of war, having first re- 
ceived her fire, at the distance of 50 or 60 yards, which 
space we gradaally lessened, until we laid her on board, 
after a well supported fire of forty-three minutes ; and, 
although so near, while loading the last broadside, that 
our rammers were shoved against the side of the enemy, 
our men exhibited the same alacrity, which they had done 
during the whole of the action. They immediately sur- 
rendered, upon our gaining their forecastle, so that no 
loss was sustained, on either side, after boarding. 

Our main top-mast was shot away, between 4 and 5 
minutes after the commencement of the firing, and falling, 
together with the main topsail yard, across the larboard 
fore and fore topsail braces, rendered our head yards un- 
manageable the remainder of the action ; at 8 minutes, 
the gaft and mizen top-gallant mast came down ; and, at 
twenty minutes from the beginning of the action, every 
brace, and most of the rigging, was shot away. A few 
minutes after separating from the Frolic, both her masts 
fell upon deck; the main mast going close by the deck, 
and the fore mast twelve or fifteen feet above it. The 
courage and exertions of the officers and crew,, fully an- 
swered my expectations and wishes : Lieut. Biddle's ac- 
tive conduct, contributed much to our success, by the ex- 
act attention paid to every department, during the en- 
gagement — and the animating example he afforded the 
crew, by his intrepidity. Lieutenants Rodgers, Booth, 
and Mr. Rapp, shewed, by the incessant fire from their 
divisions, that they were not to be surpassed in resolution 



46 

or skill. Mr. Knight, and every other officer, acted with 
a courage and promptitude, highly honorable ; and, I trust, 
have given assurance, that they may be relied on, when- 
ever their services may be required. I could not ascer- 
tain the exact loss of the enemy, as many of the dead lay 
buried under the masts and spars, that had fallen upon 
deck, which two hours exertion had not sufficiently re- 
moved. Mr. Biddle, who had charge of the Frolic, states, 
that, from what he saw, and from informaiion from the 
officers, the number killed must have been about thirty, 
and that of the wounded, about forty or fifty. Of the 
killed, is her first Lieutenant, and sailing master ; of the 
wounded. Captain \Vhinyates, and the second Lieutenant. 

We had five killed, and five wounded, as per list; the 
wounded are recovering. Lieut. Claxton, who was con- 
fined by sickness, left his bed a little previous to the en- 
gagement ; and, though too weak to be at his division, 
remained upon deck, and showed, by his composed man- 
ner of noting its incidents, that we had lost, by his illness, 
the services of a brave officer. 

I am, &c. 

JAMES JONES. 

The Hon. P. Hamilton, Sec. Navy. 



EXPEDITION AGAINST THE INDIANS. 



Detailed Account of Col. NEWMAN'S EXPEDITION AGAINST 
THE FLORIDA INDIANS. 

New-Hope, St. John's, J9th Oct. 1812. 

DEAR SIR — I have now the honor of transmitting to 
your excellency, an account of the several engagements 
which have taken place, between the Lotchaway and 
Alligator Indians, and the detachment of Georgia volun- 
teers, under my command. As the object of this expedi- 
tion, and the views of the persons engaged in it, have been 



47 

misconstrued, and mis-statemeiits, relative to its protrac- 
tion, circulated, 1 ask the indulgence of your excellency, 
to detail every transaction, from its commencement to its 
termination. — I arrived upon St. John's, in obedience to 
your orders, about the 1 5th of August, with the whole of 
my detachment, consisting of about 250, (with officers) 
and with few on the sick report. I immediately waited 
on Col. Smith, before Augustine, and received orders, da- 
ted the 21st of August, to proceed immediately against 
the hostile Indians, within the province of E. Florida, and 
destroy their towns, provisions, and ^settlements. I then 
returned to the detachment, upon the St. John's, and made 
every preparation to comply with my orders, by dispatch- 
ing parties to procure horses, from the few inhabitants 
that nad not fled from the province, in preparing packs 
and provisions, and taking every step, which I deemed 
necessary, to ensure success to the enterprize. In conse- 
quence of the sickness of myself, and nearly one half the 
detachment, the period of our marching was delayed, un- 
til the 24th September; and, when just upon the eve of 
departing, an express arrived from Col. Smith, informing 
me, that his provision waggons and escort were attacked 
by a body of negroes and Indians, and ordering me to join 
him immediately, with 90 men, and bring all the horses 
and carriages I could command, for the removal of his 
baggage, field pieces, and sick ; he having only 70 men 
fit for duty. I marched to the relief of the Colonel, with 
130 men and 25 horses, and assisted him in removing to 
the block-house, upon Davis's creek. This service delay- 
ed, for a few days, our expedition to the nation ; and when 
the detachment assembled again upon the St. John's, and 
were about to commence their march, the men had but 
six or seven days to serve. About this time, I received a 
letter from Col. Smith, advising me to propose to the de- 
tachment, an extension of their service for 15 or 20 days 
longer, as the time for which they were engaged was 
deemed insufficient to ejffect the object of the expedition. 
I accordingly assembled the detachment, and, after stating 
the necessity of a tender of further service, proposed that 
the men should volunteer for three weeks longer — when 



48 

84 men, including officers?, stepped out, and were enrolled^ 
which, with the addition of 2.3 volunteer militia, sent to 
mj aid, by Col. Smith, and 9 patriots, under the command 
of Capt, Cone, made my whole force amount to 117. 
With this small body, provided with 4 days provisions, 
and 12 horses, I v/as determined to proceed to the nation, 
and give those merciless savages, at least, one battle ; and 
I was emboldened m this determination, by the strong ex- 
pectation of being succored by a body of cavalry, from 
St. Mary's ; and which, it has since appeared, did assem- 
ble at Colerain, but proceeded no further. On the even- 
ing of the 24th September, we left the St. John's, marching 
in Indian file ; Capt. Humphrey's company of riflemen in 
front, Lieut. Fanuir's company in the centre, and Captain 
Coleman's company, with Cone's detachment, under the 
command of Lieut. Broadnax, in the rear ; a small party 
marched in the front of the main body, and another in the 
rear. Our encampments, at night, (there being three 
Companies) was in the form of a triangle, with the bag- 
gage in the centre ; the men, with their clothes on, lying 
with their feet pointing outwards, and their firelocks in 
their arms. In case of an attack, the officers were in- 
structed to bring up their companies, upon the right and 
left of the company fronting the enemy, and attend to the 
Indian mode of fighting, until ordered to charge. In case 
of meeting the enemy upon our march, Humphreys' com- 
pany was instructed to file oflf to the right; Fort's com- 
pany, to advance, and form to the fiont, in single rank, 
and Coleman's company to file off to the left — the whole, 
then, to advance, in form of a crescent, and endeavor to 
encircle the enemy. On the morning, of the 4th day of 
our march, when we were within 6 or 7 miles of the 
Lotchaway towns, our advanced party discovered a body 
of Indians, marching along the path, meeting us, and, at 
the same moment, they appeared to have discovered us. 
As soon as I was informed of it, I lost no time in giving 
the necessary directions for the companies to advance, and 
obey the instructions which had been previously given 
to them. As soon as Fort's company (at the head of 
which I had placed myself) had advanced to its proper 



49 

ground, I discovered the Indians falling back, and 
making every preparation for battle, by iHislin«;ing 
their packs, priming their rifles, and each man taking 
his tree. We continued to advance, taking advantage 
of the trees in our progress, until we were within {30 
yards of the Indians, when many ot them fired, and I 
instantly ordered the charge, which drove them from 
behind the trees, and caused them to retire, with the 
greatest precipitation. Our men, all the while, firing 
at them, slew several ; and, by repeated charges, drove 
them half a mile, when they took shelter in a swanip. 
The action, including the skirmishing upon the iianks, 
lasted two hours and a half — the Indians frequentij^ at- 
tempting to outflank us, and get in our rear, but were 
repulsed by the companies on our rigiit and left. We 
had 1 man killed, and 9 wounded ; 2 of which have 
since died of their wounds. The loss of the enemy 
must have been considerable ; I saw seven fall to the 
ground, among whom was their king, Payne. The 
rifle company on the right, and Broadnax's on the left, 
speak of killing several, near the swamp, who were 
borne off by their comrades ; it being a principle 
among the savages, to carry oH' their dead at the risk 
of their lives. We remained on the battle ground, 
watching the movements of the Indians, who were near 
the swamp, painting themselves, and appeared to be in 
consultation ; all which indicated a renewal of the com- 
bat. Accordingly, half an hour before sun set, having 
obtained a considerable reinforcement of negroes and 
Indians, from their towns, they commenced the most 
horrid yells imaginable, imitating the cries and noise 
of almost every animal of the forest ; their chiefs ad- 
vancing, in front, in a stooping, serpentine manner, and 
making the most wild and frantic gestures, until they 
approached within 200 yards of us, when they halted, 
and commenced firing. Our men were not to be alarm- 
ed by their noise and yells ; but, as instructed, remain- 
ed perfectly still and steady, behind logs and trees, un- 
til the enemy, by this forbearance, had approached 
somewhat nearer, when a brisk and well directed fire, 

G 



from our line, soon drove lliem back to their original 
<2;iOurid. I would now have ordered the charge ; hut, 
being under the necessity, from the extension of the 
enerny'v line, of detaching nearly one half of my force 
to protect our camp and wounded, (the assailing of 
which, is a great object with Indians,) I was left to con- 
tend with a force three times as numerous as my own. 
The action lasted until 8 o'clock, when the enemy were 
completely repulsed, in every attempt. We had two 
men killed, and one wounded ; the enemy carried off 
several of their men before it was dark ; after which, 
all firing, (of course at random) was at the spot from 
v.^ he nee the flash arose. After fighting, and fasting, the 
whole day, we had to work through the night ; and, at 
day-light, had a tolerable breast-work, of logs and earth, 
with port holes, on the ground on which the battle was 
fought : we were reduced to this necessity ; for, in dis- 
patching Capt. Whitaker, about dark, to St. John's, for 
a reinforcement, six more men took the liberty to ac- 
company him, taking with them our best horses ; our 
piloland surgeon, (who was sick,) was among the num- 
ber. The two days succeeding the battle, we neither 
saw nor heard any thing of the enemy ; but, on the 
evening of the third day, they commenced firing on 
our work, at a long distance, and renewed it every day, 
for 5 or 6 days, but without killing or wounding any 
of our men. After killing two or three of them, 
through our port holes, they seldom came within gun- 
shot. Seven or eight days had now elapsed, since our 
express had left us ; hunger was staring us in the face, 
and we were reduced to the necessity of eating one of 
our horses ; we had no surgeon, to dress the wounded, 
and apprehensions were entertained, that the enemy 
would receive reinforcements from Augustine, or the 
Makasukie Indians. Expecting relief every hour, I 
was unwilling to leave our breast-work, while we had a 
horse left to eat ; but I understood, from some of my 
officers, that a certain Captain was determined to leave 
us, with his company ; and, that many of the men, giv- 
ing up all hopes of relief, talked of deserting in the 



51 

night, ratlier than perish, or fall a sacriiice to the mer- 
ciless negroes and Indians, whom Ihey were taught to 
believe would surround us in great numbers, in a few 
days. In this trying situation, when our few remain- 
ing horses were shot down by them, and the number of 
our sick daily increasing, I reluctantly assented to leave 
our works that night, and directed the litters to be pre- 
pared, to carry the wounded. About 9 o'clock we com- 
menced our distressing march, carrying 5 wounded 
men in litters, and supporting two or three more. We 
had not proceeded more than eight miles, when llie 
men became perfectly exhausted, from ]uui:;cr and fa- 
tigue, and were unable to carry llie wounded any far- 
ther. About 2 hours after we left our breast-works, 
25 horsemen, with p'*ovisions, arrived 1o our relief, on 
a ditferent road from Ihe one we had taken ; but, from 
motives best known to Ihemselves, instead of ioilowing 
us, returned to St. John's, and we were left to encoun- 
ter new difficulties. We again constro.cted a plan of 
defence, and I dispatched sergeant-major lleese, with 
one private, to Picolata, to learn wliat iir.d occasioned 
the delay of our expected supplies ; and told him, i 
should remain where I v/as, until I could hear from 
him, and endeavored to procure cattle, as I discovered 
signs of their being near us. The evil genius of Capt. 

, again prevailed ; and I have since learned, 

from Capt. Cone, that this person instigated not only 
him, but many of the pri/ales, to urge a departure 
from our works, even in the day time, when I was con- 
vinced that the Indians, knowing our weak situation, 
would endeavor to ambuscade. This gentleman, if hi- 
nocentj will have an opportunity of proving himself so, 
before a court martial. 

With a burning fever on me, and scarcely able to 
walk, the march was ordered, about .3 o'clock, P. M. 
I had directed the Adjutant, Captain Harden, to march 
in front, to avoid all places where there could be an 
ambuscade, and the litters should be distributed among 
the different companies. Being extremely weak, I 
marched in the rear, with Captain , (who carried 



52 

my firelock,) Lieut. Fannin, and 15 or 20 prirales. 
We bad scarcely marched 5 miles, before the front of 
the detachment discovered the heads of several Indians, 
on botli .sides of the path, from among several pine 
trees ; the same instant, the enemy tired upon our ad- 
vanced party, and shot down 4 of them; one, a Spaniard, 
died on the spot, and 2 survived a few days ; my negro 
boy was one of them. The moment I heard the firing, 
I ordered the detachment to charge, and the Indians 
were completely defeated, in 15 minutes; many of 
them dropping their guns, and the whole running off, 
without alie-npting to rally ; four were left dead on the 
field ; and 1 am convinced, from the constant fire we 
kept up, that many more must have been slain, but 
Avere isid from our view, by the thick Palmetto bushes. 
We Jay on the battle ground all night, and started 
next day at 10 o'clock — marched 5 miles, and again 
threw up breast-works, between two ponds — living upon 
gophers, alligators, and Palmetto stocks, until serjeant- 
major Reese arrived v^ith provisions, and 14 horses — 
when we were enabled to proceed to St. John's, with 
ail our sick and wounded, where a gun-boat, by the 
direction of Col. Smith, was in waiting for us, which 
conveyed us to his camp, where we met with every at- 
tention, that humanity or benevolence could bestow. 
The number of Indians, in the first engagement, from 
every circumstance that appeared, must have been from 
75 to 100. In the second engagement, their number 
must have been double our's ; and, in the third engage- 
ment, there appeared to be 50, which was nearly equal 
to our force, deducting sick and wounded. I believe 
the loss of the enemy was fifty. 

I have the honor to be, &c. 

DANIEL NEWMAN. 

His Ex. David B. Mitchell 



53 
RUSSEL'S INDIAN EXPEDITION. 

Copy of a letter from Col. Russell^ coinmanding a detachment of the 
U. States Rangers, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Camp Russell, 315/ Oct. 1812. 

SIR — This will inforjn you, that I arrived at this 
place, from Vincer.nes, after Gen. Hopkins had march- 
ed his mounted riflemen up to fort Harrison. I took 
with me, a part of three companies of U. States ran- 
gers, where I was joined by Gov. Edwards, with his 
mounted riflemen ; tlie whole of our strength amount- 
ed to 360 privates. We penetrated very far into the 
Indian country, with an expectation of co-operating 
with Gen. Hopkins, who, b^' appointment, was to meet 
us at the Peoria tov>^ns, on the Illinois. In this, we 
were sadly disappointed, as we could get no intelli- 
gence of his army. This prevented us from doing as 
much damage to the Indians, as otherwise we could 
have done, As our numbers were too weak to make 
any delay in that quarter ; as this was farther than any 
troops liad hitherto penetrated — we stole a march upon 
the celebrated Pimartam's town, situated about 21 
miles above Peoria, and immediately at the head of 
Peoria Lake. This was a well built town, and contain- 
ed a number of Indians ; between the town and river, 
was a dismal swamp, in which they immediately flew 
for shelter, returning a few scattering shots. Our men 
nobly pursued tliem through the swamp — and also 
others, as they were crossing the Illinois river ; the 
men also pursued them to the opposite bank, and 
brought back some of their canoes, and several dead 
bodies. The Governor states, to be upwards of 20 
killed, of the enemy. — This was a flourishing town, 
with an immense deal of Indian plunder in it, together 
with a great deal of corn ; all of which was committed 
to the flames. I believe not less than 80 horses fell in- 
to our hands, belonging to the enemy. Several white 
persons' scalps, were also found among their plunder. 
I had the immediate command of the battalion, and 



54 

the superior command was retained by his excellency, 
the Governor. On this expedition, we were fortunate ; 
we had but 4 men wounded, and none mortally. This 
tour was performed, from this camp, and back to this 
place, in 13 days. 

I have the honor, &c. 

W. RUSSELL, 

Col. 1th Dist. Comdt. 



CAPTURE OF THE MACEDONIAN. 

Copy of a letter from Coinmodore Decatur, to the Secretary of the 
Navy, dated 

U. S. ShijJy United States, 

At sea, Oct. 30y 1812. 

SIR — I have the honour to inform you that, on the 
25th inst. in lat. 29<' north. Ion. 29^ 30' west, we fell in 
with, and, after an action of an hour and a half, captur- 
ed his Britannic majesty's ship Macedonian, command- 
ed by Capt. John Carden, and mounting 49 carriage- 
guns — the odd gun shifting. She is a frigate of the 
largest class, two years old, four months out of dock, 
and reputed one of the best sailers in the British ser- 
vice. The enemy, being to windward, had the ad- 
vantage of engaging us at his own distance, which Avas 
so great, that, for tlie first half hour, we did not use our 
carronades ; and at no moment was he within the com- 
plete effect of our musquetry or grape ; to this circum- 
stance, and a heavy swell, which was on at the time, I 
ascribe the unusual length of the action. 

The enthusiasm of every officer, seaman, and marine, 
on board this ship, on discovering the enemy — their 
steady conduct in bat^^le, and precision of their fire, 
could not be surpassed — where all met my fullest ex- 
pectations, it would be unjust, in me, to discriminate. 
Permit me, however, to recommend to your particular 
notice, my 1st Lieutenant, Wm. H. Allen : he has 
served with me upwards of 5 years; and, to his unre- 



55 

mitted exertions, in disciplining the crew, is to be im- 
puted the obvious superiority of our gunnery, exhibit- 
ed in the result of this contest. 

Subjoined is a list of the killed and wounded, on 
both sides. Our loss, compared with that of the ene- 
my, v.ill appear small. Amongst our wounded, you 
will observe the name of Lieut. Funk, who died a few 
hours after the action ; he was an officer of great gal- 
lantry and promise, and the service has sustained a se- 
vere loss in his death. 

The Macedonian lost her mizen mast, fore and main 
top masts, and main yard, and was much cut up in her 
hull ; the damage sustained, by this ship, was not such 
as to render her return into port necessary ; and, had I 
not deemed it important that we should see our prize 
in, should have continued our cruise. , 

With the highest, &c. 

STEPHEN DECATUR. 



LSIT OF KILLED AND WOUNDED, ON BOARD THE 
UNITED STATES. 

Killed — Privates - - -5 

Wounded — 1 Lieut, and 6 privates - 7 

Total, killed and wounded, - - 12 



ON BOARD THE MACEDONIAN. 

Killed, - - - - 36 

Wounded — 68, viz. — 1st and 3d Lieutenants, 
Master's Mate, 2 Midshipmen, and seamen, - 68 

Total, killed and wounded of the enemy, 104 

S. DECATUR. 



56 
DEFENCE OF FORT NIAGARA. 

To Brigadier General Smyth, commanding the Army 
of the Centre. 

SIR — T beg leave to inform you that, on the morn- 
ing of the 21st Nov. at 6 o'clock, a heavy cannonading 
opened upon this garrison, irom all the batteries at, and 
in the neighborhood of fort George, which lasted, with- 
out intermission, until after sun-down. They had 5 
detached batteries ; 2 mounting 24 pounders, J mount- 
ing a 9 pounder, and 2 mortar batteries ; one ten and a 
half, and the other five and a half inch — the batteries 
firing hot shot, which set some of our buildings on fire. 
But, from the extraordinary vigilance of the officers 
and men, particularly iVlajor Armistead, of the U. S. 
corps of engineers, whose indefatigable exertions were 
extended to all parts of the garrison, the fires were got 
under, without being observed by the enemy. 

Our garrison was not as well provided with artillery 
and ammunition, as I could have wished ; however, the 
batteries opened a tremendous fire upon them, in re- 
turn, with hot shot, admirably well directed. Several 
times, during the cannonading, the town of Newark was 
in flames ; but was extinguished by their engines, as 
also the centre building in fort George. Their Mess- 
house, and all the buildings near it, were consumed. 
Capt. M'Keon, commanded a 12 pounder, in the S. 
E. block-house, and distinguished himself, by his usual 
gallantry and skill. Capt. Jacks, of the 7th regiment, 
militia artillery, commanded a 6 pounder in the north 
block -house ; and, together with a part of his own com- 
pany, though placed in a situation most exposed to the 
fire of the enemy, maintained their position like vete- 
rans. Lieut. Reese, of the 3d regiment, artillery, had 
the command of an 18 pounder, on the S. E. battery, 
which was pointed at a battery, en barbette, mounting a 
24 pounder, and also at Fort George ; several well di- 
rected shot were made from this gun, which proved the 
skill of its commander. About 10 o'clock. Lieutenant 



57 

Rees had his shoulder bruised, by a part of the parapet 
failing on him; which, though it did not materially Injure 
him, obhged him to retire; and capt. Leonard, of the 1st 
regiment, artillery, at that moment arriving, he took the 
command of this battery, during the remainder of the day. 
Lieut. Wendel, of the 3d regiment artillery, had the com- 
mand of an 18 and 4 pounder, on the west battery ; and 
Doctor Hooper, of Capt. Jack's company of militia artille- 
ry, had the command of a 6 pounder, on the mess-house. 
Of these gentlemen, and their commands, I cannot speak 
with too much praise ; they distinguished themselves 
highly; and, from their shot, all of which were hot, the 
town of Newark was repeatedly fired, and one of the ene- 
my's batteries silenced for a time. 

An instance of very extraordinary bravery, in a female, 
(the wife of one Doyle, a private in the U, States artillery, 
made a prisoner at Queenstown) I cannot pass over : — • 
durino; the most tremendous cannonadino; I have ever seen, 
she attended the 6 pounder, on the old mess-house, with 
the red hot shot, and showed fortitude equalling the Maid 
of Orleans. 

Lieuts. Gansevoort and Harris, of the 1st regiment, U. 
States artillery, had the command of the salt battery, at 
Youngstown, mounting one 18 and a 4 pounder; these 
two guns played upon the garrison of fort George, and 
the buildings near it ; from every observation 1 could 
make, during their fire, I am happy to say, they merited 
my warmest thanks, for their skill in the service of these 
guns. Lieut. Harris, from his 4 pounder, sunk a schoon- 
er, which lay at their wharf; — these two officers, and 
their men, in the warmest part of the cannonading, hav- 
ing fired away all their cartridges, cut up their flannel 
waistcoats and shirts, and the soldiers their trowsers, to 
supply their guns. — I cannot say too much in praise of all 
the officers and soldiers of the artillery, immediately under 
my observation, in this garrison ; they merit the thanks 
and esteem of their country, for the defence of it, and I 
believe it never sustained so sharp and continued a bom- 
bardment. 

The enemy threw more than 2000 red-hot balls int© 

H 



58 

it, and a number of shells, amounting to 180, only one of 
which did injury to our men. Lieut. Col. Gray command- 
ed the artillery ; the unremitting attention paid to his du- 
ty, proved him an officer, whose zeal and science do hon- 
or to himself and country ; to this gentleman I feel much 
indebted, for the manner in which he acquitted himself. 

To the officers of my regiment, (particularly Captain 
Milligan) and the soldiers who assisted the artillery, and 
those employed in extinguishing the fires, and carrying off 
the killed and wounded, I am also much indebted — they 
merit my warmest thanks. To Dr. West, of the garrison. 
Dr. Augam, of the 14th regiment, U. States Infantry, and 
Dr. Craig, of the 22d regiment, U. States infantry, I offer 
my thanks ; they were employed, during the entire day^ 
in the most critical duties of their profession. 

Our killed is, 4. Wounded, 7 — total 11. — From the 
numbers carried off (which we saw) from the enemy's 
batteries, I presume many more were killed and wounded, 
on their side. Only two of the above men was killed by 
the enemy's shot; the others, by the bursting of a 12 
pounder, in the , S. E. battery. 

GEORGE M'FEELEY, Lieut. Col. 

Commmanding Fort Niagara. 
Brig. Gen. Smyth. 



EXPEDITION ON THE WABASH. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Samuel Hopkins, lo his Excellency 
Governor Shelby. 

On Wdbashy near the mouth of Pine-creek^ 
11 th Nov. 1812. 
SIR — By Col. Richard Taylor, Quarter-master Gene- 
ral, who goes on as quick as possible to Frankfort, I have 
it in my power to give you general information of the 
movements of the army, since my last. — On the 11th, the 



59 

army marched from fort Harrison, on the road formerly 
made by Gov. Harrison's army, and the boats set out at 
the same time. The length of time the enemy had ex- 
pected us, made it necessary to guard ourselves in an es- 
pecial manner. The rise of the waters, from a heavy fall 
of rain, preceding our march, and some large creeks, left 
us no doubt of considerable difficulty and embarrassment; 
insomuch, that not until the 14th did we pass Sugar 
Creek, 3 miles above the road. 

From every information, I had no hesitation in moving 
on the east side of the Wabash ; the Verraillions, Pine- 
creek, and otlier impediments on the west side, superadd- 
ed to the presumption that we were expected, and might 
more easily be annoyed and ambuscaded on that route, 
determined me in this measure ; the boats, too, witii our 
provisions of rations, forage, and military stores, could be 
more easily covered and protected, as the line of march 
could be, invariably, nearer the river. Lieut. Col. Bar- 
bour, with one battalion of his regiment, had command of 
the 7 boats, and encamped witli us, on the bank of the 
river, almost every night. This so protracted our march, 
that we did not reach the Propiiet's tovvn until the 19th : 
on the morning of this day, I detached 300 men, to sur- 
prize the Winebago town, lying on Ponce Passu creek, 
one mile from the Wabash, and 4 belov/ the Prophet's. 
This party, commanded by Gen. Butler, surrounded the 
place, about break of day, and found it evacuated. There 
were, in the main town, about 40 houses, many of them 
from 30 to 50 feet in length ; besides many huts, in the 
surrounding Priarie, in Which they had cultivated a good 
<leal of corn. 

On the 20th, 21st, and 22d, we were employed in the 
complete destruction of the Prophet's town, which con- 
tained about 40 cabins and huts, and the large Kickapoo 
village adjoining, below it, on the west side of the river, 
consisting of about 160 cabins and huts ; finding, and des- 
troying their corn, reconnoitering the circumjacent part 
of the country, and constructing works, for the defence 
of our army and boats. Seven miles east of us, on the 
Ponce Passu creek, a party of Indians were discovered — 



60 

they had fired on a small party of ours, on the 21st, and 
killed a man, by the name of Dunn, a gallant soldier, in 
Capt, Duvall's company. On the 22d, upwards of sixty 
horsemen, under the command of Lieut. Colonels Miller 
and Wilcox, anxious to bury their comrade, as well as to 
obtain a more complete knowledge of the ground, went on 
to a point near the Indian encampment, fell into an am- 
buscade, and 18 of our party were killed, wounded, and 
missing. Among these, are three hopeful young officers, 
and one private, from the 8th regiment, viz. — Mars, Ed- 
wards, Murray, and the private, Webb, presumed to be 
killed; the other 14, were of the Rangers. On the re- 
turn of this party, and the information of a large assem- 
blage of the enemy, who, encouraged by the strength of 
their camp, appeared to be waiting for us, every prepara- 
tion was made to march early, and engage the enemy at 
every risk ; when, from the most violent storm, and fall of 
snow, attended with the coldest weather I ever saw or 
felt, at this season of the year, and which did not subside 
until the evening of the 23d, we were delayed until the 
24th. Upon arriving on the ground, we found the enemy 
had deserted the camp before the fall of snow, and had 
passed the Ponce Passu. I have no doubt but their ground 
was the strongest I ever have seen ; the deep, rapid creek, 
spoken of, was in their rear, running in a semicircle, and 
fronted by a bluff, 100 ket high, almost perpendicular, 
and only to be penetrated by three steep ravines ; if the 
enemy would not defend themselves here, it was evident 
they did not intend fighting at all. After reconnoitering 
sufficiently, we returned to camp, and found the ice so ac- 
cumulated, as to alarm us for the return of the boats. I 
had fully determined to have spent one more week in en- 
deavoring to find the Indian camps ; but the shoeless, 
shirtless state of the troops, now clad in the remnants of 
their summer dress ; a river full of ice ; the hills covered 
with snow ; a rigid climate, and no certain point to which 
we could direct our operations; under the influence of the 
advice of every field and staff officer, orders were given, 
and measures pursued for our retui'ft, on the 25th. We 
are now progressing to Fort Harrison, through the ice 



61 

and snow, where we expect to arrive on the last day of 
this month. 

Before I close this, I cannot forbear expressing the 
merits of the officers and soldiers of this command. After 
leaving, at fort Harrison, all unfit for duty, we had, in 
privates of every corps, about 1000 — in the total, 1250; 
at the Prophet's town, upwards of 100 of these were on 
the sick report. Yet, sir, have we progressed in such 
order, as to menace our enemy, from any annoyance. 
Seven large keel boats have been covered and protectee^ 
to a point, hitherto unknown in Indian expeditions. Three 
large Indian establishments have been burnt, and destroy- 
ed, with near three miles of fence, (and all the corn we 
could find,) besides many smaller ones ; — a march, on the 
east side of the Wabash, without road, or cognizance of 
the country, fully 1 00 miles, perfected ; and this was done, 
with a naked army of infantry, aided by only about fifty 
rangers and spies : all this will have been done, in twenty 
days — no sigh, no murmur or complaint. 

I have the honor to be, &c. 

SAMUEL HOPKINS. 
His Ex. Gov. Shelby. 



ARMY PROCEEDINGS. 

Copy of a Dispatch, from Brig. Gen. Smyth, to Maj. Gen. Dearborn, 
transmitted to the Secretary of Wary dated 

Camp, near Buffalocy ith Dec. 1812. 

SIR — The troops, under my command, having been 
ordered to hut themselves for the winter, it becomes my 
duty to report to you the proceedings had here, since I 
took command on this frontier. 

On or about the 26th of October, I ordered that 20 
scows should be prepared, for the transportation of caval- 
ry and artillery, and put the carpenters of the army upon 
that duty. By the 26th Nov. ten scows were completed ; 



b2 

and, by bringing boats from Lake Ontario, the number 
was increased to seventy. 

I had issued an address, to the men of New-York ; and, 
perhaps, 300 volunteers had arrived at Baffaloe. I pre- 
sumed that the regular troops, and the vokmteers, under 
Colonels Swnt and M'Clure, vi^ould furnish 2,300 men, for 
duty ; and, of Gen. TannehilFs brigade, reporting a total 
of 1,650, as many as 413 had volunteered to cross over 
into Canada. I deemed myself ready " to cross with 3000 
men, at once,''' according to your orders. Preparatory 
thereto, on the night of the 27 th Nov. I sent over two 
parties ; one, under Lieut. CoL Boerstler; the other, un- 
der Capt. King, with whom Lieut. Angus, of the navy, at 
the head of a body of seamen, united. 

The first mentioned party vv'^as to capture a guard, and 
destroy a bridge, about 5 miles below fort Erie ; the se- 
cond party were to take, and render useless the enemy's 
batteries, and some pieces of light artillery. The first 
party made some prisoners, but failed to destroy tiie bridge. 
The second party, after rendering unserviceable the light 
artillery, separated, by some misapprehension. Lieut. 
Angus, the seamen, and part of the troops returned, with 
all the boats, while Capt. King, Capt. Morgan, Capt. 
Sproul, Lieut. Houston, and about sixty men, remained. 
Capt. King, notwithstanding, with those under his com- 
mand, advanced to the enemy's batteries, attacked and 
took two of them in succession, rendered unserviceable 
the cannon, and took a number of prisoners. In descend- 
inir the Niaa;ara some distance, two boats were found — 
on board of which Capt. King sent his prisoners, all his 
officers, and half his men ; his high sense of honour would 
not allow him to quit the remainder — he was captured 
"with them. 

Orders had been given, that all the troops in the neigh- 
borhood, should march at revalie, to the place of embarka- 
tion. A part of the detachment, sent in the night, having 
returned, and having excited apprehensions for the resi- 
due, about 250 men, under Col. Winder, put off, in boats, 
for the opposite shore; a part of their force had landed, 
when a force, with a piece of artillery, appeared : — a re- 



63 

treat was ordered, and Col. Winder's detachment suffered 
a loss of 6 killed, and 20 wounded ; of whom, six were 
officers. The general embarkation commenced, as the 
troops arrived ; but, this beinj^ the first time the troops 
had embarked, the whole of the scows were occupied by 
about one third part of the artillery; while about 800 re- 
gular infantry, something upwards of 200 twelve month's 
volunteers, and, perhaps, 200 of those militia who had vo- 
lunteered their services for a few days, occupied all the 
boats that were ready. The troops, then embarked, 
moved up the stream, to Black Rock, without sustaining 
loss from the enemy's fire. It was now the afternoon, and 
they were ordered to disembark, and dine. The enemy 
showed a force, estimated at five or six hundred men, 
drawn up in a field, at some distance from the river ; and 
had one piece of artillery, said to be a 9 pounder, ready to 
fire on our troops. 

There remained, unembarked, a part of the artillery ; 
a few cavalry ; the volunteers, under Col. M'Clure — 
amounting, on that day, to 340 men ; a detachment from 
Gen. Tannehill's brigade ; (number unknown, and little 
to be relied on,) there were also sundry crowds, who 
might have followed the army — if it was successful. 

Recollecting your instructions, " to cross with 3000 
men at once,^'' and to consult some of my principal officers, 
in " all important movements," I called for the field offi- 
cers, of the regular and tv/elve months volunteers, em- 
barked ; Col. Porter not being found at the moment, Capt. 
Gibson was called, as the next senior officer of artillery. 
These questions were put : — " Is it expedient now to cross 
over ? Is the force, we have, sufficient to conquer the 
opposite coast ?" The first question was decided in the 
negative, by Colonels Parkei-, Schuyler, Winder, Lieut. 
Colonels Boerstler and Coles, and Major Campbell. Col. 
Swift, of the volunteers, fdone gave an opinion for then 
crossing over. The second question was not decided ; — 
Col. Parker, Col. Schuyler, Lieut. Col. Coles, and Major 
Campbell, were decidedly of opinion that the force was 
insufficient ; — Colonels Winder and Swift, Lieut. Colonel 
Boerstler, and Capt. Gibson, deemed the force sufficient. — 



64 

I determined to postpone crossing over, until more com* 
plete preparation would enable me to embark at once, ac- 
cording to your instructions: the next day was spent in 
such preparations, and the troops were ordered to be 
again at the place of embarkation, at 8 o'clock, on the 
morning of the 30th November. On their arrival, thej 
were sent into the adjacent woods, there to build fires, 
and remain until 3 o'clock in the morning, of the 1st of 
December, when it was intended to put off two hours be- 
fore day-light, so as to avoid the fire of the enemy's can- 
non ; in passing the position which, it was believed they 
occupied below, to land above Chippewa, assault that 
place, and, if successful, march through Queenstown, to 
lort George. The Contractor was called on, to furnish 
rations, for 2500 men, for four days ; when it was found, 
he could furnish the pork, but not the flour ; sixty barrels 
were required, and only thirty furnished. The embarka- 
tion commenced ; but was delayed by circumstances, so as 
not to be completed until after day-light — when it was 
found, the regular infantry, 688 men, the artillery, 177 
men. Col. Swift's volunteers, about 230, six companies of 
Federal Volunteers, amounting to 276 men, about 100 
militia, of Col. Dobbins's regiment, and a few men in a 
boat with Mr. P. B. Porter, contractor's agent, who was 
to pilot the enterprize, had embarked ; the whole on board, 
without the commissioned officers, being 1500 men; and 
it was now two hours later than the time fixed on for 
getting out. 

There were some groups of men, not yet embarked ; 
they were applied to, requested, and ordered, by the 
Brigade Major, to get into the boats ; they did not. He 
estimated their number at 150 — it was probably greater. 

It then became a question, whether it was expedient to 
invade Canada, in open day-light, with 1500 men, at a point 
where no reinforcement could be expected for some days. 
I saw that the number of regular troops was declining ra- 
pidly ; I knew that on them, chiefly, I was to depend. 

I called together officers, commanding corps of the re- 
gular army. Col. Parker being sick, those present were 
Col. Porter, of the artillery. Col. Schuyler, Col. Winder, 



65 

and Lieut. Col. Coles. I put to them this question : — " Shall 
we proceed .^" Tliej unanimousiy decided that we ought 
not. — i foresaw that the volunteers, who had come out for 
a few days, would disperse. Several of them had, on the 
evening of the 25th, broken their muskets, because they 
had not seen a battle ; I foresaw that the number of re- 
gular troops would decrease ; the measles had affected 
them generally ; the constant use of fresh meat had pro- 
duced dysenteries, and they were now in tents, in the 
month of December. I informed the officers, that the at- 
tempt to invade Canada would not be made, until the ar- 
my was reinforced, and directed them to withdraw their 
troops, and cover them with huts immediatelv. The vo- 
lunteers, and neighboring people, were dissatisfied, and it 
has been in the power of the contractor's ao-ent to excite 
some clamor against the course pursued ; he finds the con- 
tract a losing one, at this time, and would wish to see the 
army in Canada, that he might not be bound to supply it. 

I am sorry that the situation of the force, under my com- 
mand, had not been such, as to make the propriety of a 
forward movement to all. Circumstanced as we were, I 
have thought it my duty to follow^ the cautious counsels 
of experience, and not, by precipitation, to add another to 
the list of our defeats. 

You will perceive my motives, by my letter of the 30th 
Oct. wherein I said — " I would cross in three days, if I had 
the means ; without them, it Avould be injustice to the na- 
tion and myself, to attempt it — / rnust not he defeated. 
I have the honor, &c. 

ALEXANDER SMYTH, Brig. Gen. 

Maj. Gen. Dearborn^ 



HEALD'S DEFEAT BY THE INDL4NS. 

Letter from Captain Heald, late Commandant at Fort Chicago, dated 

Pittsburgh, Oct. 23, 1812. 
On the 9th of August last, I received orders from Gen. 
Hull, to evacuate the post, and proceed, with my command. 



66 

(o Detroit by land, leaving it at mj discretion, to dispose 
of the public property as 1 thought fit. 

The neighboring Indians got the information, as early 
as I did ; and came in, from all quarters, in order to receive 
the goods in tlie factory store, which they understood were 
to be given them. On the 13th, Capt. Wells, of Fort 
Wayne, arrived, with about thirty Miamies, for the pur- 
pose of escorting us in, by the request of Gen. Hull. On 
the 14th, I delivered the Indians all the goods in the facto- 
ry store, and a considerable quantity of provisions, which 
we could not take away with us. The surplus arms, and 
ammunition, I thought proper to destroy, fearing they 
would make a bad use of it, if put into their possession ; 
I also destroyed all the liquor on hand, soon after they be- 
gan to collect. The collection was unusually large for 
that place, but they conducted with the strictest propriety 
until I left the fort. 

On the 15th, at 9 in the morning, we commenced our 
march ; a part of the Miamies were detached in front, and 
the remainder in our rear, as guards, under the direction 
of Capt. Wells. The situation of the country rendered it 
necessary for us to take the beach, with the lake on our 
left, and a high sand-bank on our right, at about 100 
yards distance. We had proceeded about a mile and a 
half, when it was discovered that the Indians were prepar- 
ed to attack us, from behind the bank. I immediately 
marched up with the company, to the top of the bank, 
when the action commenced : after firing one round, we 
charged, and the Indians gave way in front, and joined 
those on our flanks. In about 15 minutes, they got pos- 
session of all our horses, provisions, and baggage, of eve- 
ry description ; and, finding the Miamies did not assist us, 
I drew off the few men I had left, and took possession of a 
small elevation, in the open priarie, out of shot of the bank, 
and every other cover. The Indians did not follow me, 
but assembled in a body, on the top of the bank, and after 
some consultation among themselves, made signs for me 
to approach them. 

I advanced towards them, alone, and was met by one of 
the Potawatamie chiefs, called the Black-bird, with an in- 



67 

lerpreter; after shaking hands, lie requested me to sur- 
render, promising to spare the Hves of all the prisoners. 
On a few moments' consideration, I concluded it would be 
most prudent to comply with his request, although I did 
not put entire confidence in his promise. After delivering 
up our arms, we were taken back to their encampment, 
near the fort, and distributed among the different tribes. 
The next morning, they set fire to the fort, and left the 
place, taking the prisoners with them ; their number of 
warriors was between 4 and 500, mostly of the Potawa- 
timie nation, and their loss was about 15. Our strength 
was 54 regulars, and 12 militia — out of which, 26 reo-u- 
lars, and all the militia, were killed in the action, with two 
women and twelve children. Ensign Ronan, and Doctor 
Voorhis, of my company, with Captain Wells, of Fort 
Wayne, to my great sorrow, numbered among the dead. 
Lieut. Helm, with 25 non-commissioned officers and pri- 
vates, and 1 1 women and children, were prisoners when 
we were separated. Mrs. Heald and myself, were taken 
to the mouth of the river St. Joseph, and, being both bad- 
ly wounded, were permitted to reside with Mr. Burnet, an 
Indian trader. In a few days after our arrival there, the 
Indians all went off to take fort Wayne ; and, in their ab- 
sence, I engaged a Frenchman to take us to Mackinac, by- 
water, where I gave myself up as a prisoner of war, with 
one of my sergeants. The commanding officer, Capt Ro- 
berts, offered me every assistance in his power, to render 
our situation comfortable, while we remained there, and 
to enable us to proceed on our journey. To him I gave 
my parole of honor, and came on to Detroit, and reported 
myself to Col. Proctor, who gave us a passage to Buifaloe ; 
from that place, I came by way of Presque-Isle, and ar- 
rived here yesterday. J. HEALD, CaptaitK 



ELLIOT'S AFFAIR ON LAKE ERIE. 

Letter from Captain Elliot, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

Black-Eock,Oct.9lh, 1812. 
SIR — I have the honor to inform you that, on the morn- 
ing of the 8th inst. two British vessels, which I was in- 



68 

Ibrnied were his Britannic majesty's brig Detroit, (late 
the U. S. brig Adams,) and the brig Hunter, mounting 
14 guns, but which afterwards proved to be the brig Ca- 
ledonia, both said to be well armed and manned, came 
down the lake, and anchored under the protection of fort 
Erie. Having been on the lines, for some time, and, in a 
measure, inactively employed, I determined to make an 
attack, and, if possible, get possession of them. A strong' 
inducement to this attempt, arose from a conviction that, 
with these two vessels, added to those I have purchased, 
and am fitting out, I should be able to meet the remainder 
of the British force, on the Upper Lakes, and save an in- 
calculable expence and labour to the government. 

On the morning of their arrival, I heard that our sea- 
men were but a short distance from this place, and imme- 
diately dispatched an express to the officers, directing 
them to use all possible dispatch, in getting their men to 
this place, as I had important service to perform. On 
their arrival, which was about 12 o'clock, I discovered 
that they had only twenty pistols, and neither cutlasses 
nor battle-axes. But, on application to Generals Smyth 
and Hall, of the regulars and militia, I was supplied with 
a few arms ; and Gen. Smyth was so good, on my request, 
as immediately to detach 50 men from the regulars, armed 
with musquets. 

By 4 o'clock, P. M. I had my men selected, and sta- 
tioned in two boats, which I had previously prepared for 
the purpose. With these boats, 50 men in each, and un- 
der circumstances very disadvantageous, my men having 
scarcely had time to refresh themselves, after a fatiguing 
march of 500 miles, I put off from the mouth of Buffaloe 
creek, at 1 o'clock, the following morning, and at 3, I was 
along side the vessels. In the space of aboirt 10 minutes, 
I had the prisoners all secured, the top-sails sheeted home, 
^nd the vessels under way. Unfortunately, the wind was 
not sufficiently strong to get me up against a rapid cur- 
rent, into the lake, w^here I had understood another arm- 
ed vessel lay at anchor ; and I was obliged to run down 
the river, by the forts, under a heavy fire of round, grape, 
and canister, from a number of pieces of heavy ordnance. 



69 

and several pieces of flying artillery, was compelled to an- 
chor at tiie distance of about 400 yards from two of their 
batteries. After the discharge of the first gun, which was 
from the flymg artillery, I hailed the shore, and observed 
to the officer, that if another gun was fired, I would bring 
the prisoners on deck, and expose them to the same fate we A 
should all share; but, notwithstanding, they disregarded ^*^> 
the caution, and continued a constant, and destructive fire. 
One single moment's reflection, determined me not to com- 
mit an act, that would subject me to the imputation of bar- 
barity. The Caledonia had been beached, in as safe a 
position as the circumstances would admit of, under one 
of our batteries at Black Rock. I now brouofht all the 
guns of the Detroit on one side, next the enemy, stationed 
the men at them, and directed a fire, which continued as 
long as our ammunition lasted, and circumstances permit- 
ted. During the contest, I endeavored to get the Detroit 
on one side, by sounding a line, (there being no wind,) on 
shore, with all the line I could muster ; but, the current 
being so strong, the boat could not redch the shore. I 
then hailed our shore, and requested that warps would be 
made fast on land, and sent on board ; the attempt proved 
useless. As the fire was such as would, in all probability, 
sink the vessel in a short time, I determined to drift down 
the river, out of reach of their batteries, and make a stand 
against the flying artillery. 

I, accordingly, cut the cable, made sail with very light 
airs, and at that instant discovered that the pilot had aban- 
doned me. I dropped astern for about ten minutes, when 
I was brought up on our shore, on Squaw Island — got the 
boarding-boat ready, had the prisoners put in, and sent on 
shore, with directions for the officer, to return for me, and 
what property we could get from the brig ; he did not re-- 
turn, owing to the difficulty of the boats getting ashore. 
Discovering a skiff, under the counter, I put the four re- 
maining prisoners in the boat, and, with my officers, I went 
on shore to bring the boat off. I asked for protection to 
the l)rig, of Lieut. Col. Scott, who readily gave it. At 
this moment, I discovered a boat, with about 40 soldiers, 
from the British side, making for the brig; they got on 



70 

board, but were soon compelled to abandon her, witli 
the loss of nearly all their men. During the whole of 
this morning, both parties kept up, alternately, a conti- 
nued fire upon the brig, and so much injured her, that 
it was impossible to have floated her; several shot in 
her bends, her sails in ribbons, and rigging all cut in 
pieces. 

To my officers and men, I feel under great obliga- 
tion ; to Capt. Towson, and Lieut. Roach, of the 2d 
regiment of artillery, Ensign Prestman, of the infantry, 
Capt. Chapin, Mr. John M'Comb, Messrs. Town, Dain, 
Overstocks, and Sloan, resident gentlemen of Buffaloe, 
for their soldier and sailor-like conduct; in a Avord, 
sir, every man fought, *as with their hearts, animated 
only by the honor and interest of their country. 

The prisoners, I have turned over to the military. 
The Detroit mounted 6 six pounder long guns, a com- 
manding Lieutenant of marines, a boatswain and gunner, 
and 56 men — about 30 American prisoners on board, 
musquets, pistols, cutlasses, and battle axes. In board- 
ing her, I lost one man, one officer wounded, Mr. John 
C. Cummings, acting Midshipman, a bayonet through 
the leg — his conduct was correct, and deserves the no- 
tice of the Department. The Caledonia mounted two 
small guns, blunderbusses, pistols, musquets, cutlasses, 
and boarding-pikes; 12 men, including officers, and 
10 prisoners on board ; the boat, boarding her, com- 
manded by sailing-master George Watts, who perform- 
ed his duty in a masterly style ; but one man killed, 
and four wounded badly. I enclose you a list of the 
officers and men engaged in the enterprise, and also a 
view of the lake and river, in the different situations of 
attack : in a day or two, I shall forward the names of 
the prisoners. The Caledonia belongs to the North- 
West Company, loaded with furs, worth, I understand, 
200,000 dollars. 

I have the honor, &c. 

JESSE D. ELLIOTT. 

Hon. P. Hamiltotij Sec. Navy. 



71 
CAPTURE OF THE JAVA. 

Copy of a letter fr^n Commodore William Bainbridge, to the Secretary 
of the Navy, dated 

U. Slates Frigate Constitution, 

St Salvador Cy 3d Jan. 1813. 

S[R — I have (he honor to inform you, that on the 29th 
ult. at 2, P. M. in S. lat. 13, 6, and W. Ion. 38, about 
10 leagues distance from the coast of Brazils, I fell in 
with, and captured his B. M. frigate Java, of 49 guns, 
and upwards of 400 men, commanded by Captain Lam- 
bert, a very distinguished officer. The action lasted 1 
hour and 55 minutes, in which time the enemy was com- 
pletely dismasted, not having a spar of any kind stand- 
ing. The loss on board the Constitution, was 9 killed, 
and 25 wounded, as per enclosed list. The enemy had 
60 killed, and 101 wounded, certainly ; (among the lat- 
ter, Capt. Lambert, mortally,) but, by the enclosed 
letter, written on board this ship, (by one of the offi- 
cers of the Java,) and accidentally found, it is evident 
that the enemy's wounded must have been much great- 
er than as above stated, and who must Ijave died of their 
wounds, previously to their being removed — the letter 
states, 60 killed, and 170 wounded. 

For further details of the action, 1 beg leave to refer 
you to the enclosed extracts from my journal. The 
.Java had, in addition to her own crew, upwards of 100 
supernumerary officers and seamen, to join the British 
ships of war, in the East Indies ; also Lieut. General 
Hyslop, appointed to the command of Bombay, Major 
Walker, and Capt. Wood, of his staff, and Capt. Mar- 
shall, master and commander in the British navy, going^ 
to the East Indies, to take command of a sloop of war. 
Should I attempt to do justice, by representation, to 
the brave and good conduct of all my officers and crew, 
during the action, I should fail in the attempt ; there- 
fore, suffice it to say, that the whole of their conduct 
was such as to merit my highest encomiums, — I beg 
leave to recommend the officers, particularly, to the 
notice of government, as also the unfortunate seamen. 



72 

who were wounded, and Ihe families of those brave 
men who feJJ in the action. The great distance from 
our own coast, and the perfect wreck we made of the 
enemy's frio;ate, forbade every idea of attempting to 
take her to the U. States ; I had, therefore, no alterna- 
tive but burning her, which I did, on the 3 1st ult. after 
receiving all the prisoners and their baggage, which 
was very tedious work, only having 1 boat left, out of 
8, and not one left on board the Java. 

On blowing up the frigate Java, I proceeded to this 
place, where I have landed all the prisoners on their 
parole, to return to England, and there remain until 
regularly exchanged ; and not to serve in their /7ro/e5- 
sional capacities, in any place, or in any manner what- 
ever, against the U. S. of America, until regularly ex- 
changed. 

1 have the honor, &c. 

WILLIAM BAIINBRIDGE. 

Hon. Sec. Navy. 

LIST OF KILLED AND WOUNDED, 
On hoard the U. States Frigate Constitution, under the command of 
Com. Wm. Bainbridgc, in an action with his B. M. Frigate Java^ 
Henry Lambert, Esq. commander, Dec. 29, 1812. 

Killed, 9 — Wounded, (^om. Bainbridge, Lieut, Ayl- 
win. Master's Mate, Waldo, and Qr. Master Wood- 
bury, 4 — Wounded, Seamen and Marines, 21 — total 34. 

A. A. EVANS, Surgeon. 
R. C. LUDLOW, Purser. 
W. Bainbridge. 

The following is a list of his B. M. military and naval officers, pa- 
rolled at St. Salvadore, by Com. Bainbridge, viz. 

One Lieut. General, 1 Major, 1 Captain, (military 
officers,) 1 Post-Captain, 1 Master and Commander, 5 
Lieutenants, 3 Lieuts. of Marines, 1 Surgeon, 2 Asst. 
Surgeons, 1 Purser, 15 Midshipmen, 1 Gunner, 1 Boat- 
swain, 1 Master, I Carpenter, 2 Capts. Clerks — making 
28 officers, and 323 petty officers, seamen, and marines ; 
add 161, the killed and wounded, and it will appear 
that 512 men were on board the Java. 



73 

At 2, 10, P. M. commenced the action, within good 
grape and canister distance, the enemy to windward, 
(but much further than I willed.) — at 2, 30, our wheel 
was shot entirely away — 2, 40, determined to close 
with the enemy, notwithstanding his raking ; set the 
fore and main sail, and luffed up close to him. — 2, 50, 
the enemy's jib-boom got foul of our mizen rigging — 
3, the enemy's bowsprit-head, and jib-boom, shot away 
by us — 3, 5, shot away the enemy's foremast, by tlie 
board — 3, 15, shot away the main top-mast, just above 
the cap — 3, 40, shot away gaff, and spanker boom — 

3, 55, shot away his mizen mast, just by the board — 

4, 5, having silenced the fire of the enemy completely, 
and his colors and main rigging being down, supposed 
he had struck ; then hauled aboard the courses, to shoot 
ahead, to repair our rigging, which was extremely cut, 
leaving the enemy a complete wreck ; soon alter, dis- 
covered the enemy's flag was still flying — hove too, to 
repair some of our damage — 4, 20, the enemy's main 
mast went by the board — 4, 50, wore ship, and stood 
for the enemy — 5, 25, got very close to the enemy, in 
a very effectual raking position, athwart his bows, and 
was at the very instant of raking him, when he most 
prudently struck his flag ; for, had he suffered the 
broadside to have raked him, his additional loss must 
have been extremely great. 

W. BAINBHIDGE. 



WINCHESTER'S AFFAIR. 

Copi/ of a letter from Brig. Gen. Winchester, (now a prisoner of War,) 
to the Secretary of War. 

Maiden, January 23d 1813. 

SIR — A detachment from the left wing of the N. 
W. Army, under my command, at Frenchtown, on the 
River Raisin, was attacked on the 22d inst. by a force, 
greatly superior in number, aided by several pieces of 
artillery. The action commenced at the dawn of day ; 

K 



74 

the picket guards were driven in, and a heavy fire open- 
ed on the whole line, by which a part thereof was 
thrown into disorder ; and, being ordered to retire a 
smaii distance, in order to form on more advantageous 
ground, I found the enemy doubling our left flank, 
with force and rapidity. 

A destructive fire was sustained for some time ; at 
leno^th, borne down by numbers, the few of us that re- 
mained, with the party that retired from the lines, sub- 
mitted. 

The remainder of our force, in number about 400, 
continued to defend themselves, with great gallantry, 
in an unequal contest, against small arms and artillery, 
until I was brought in as a prisoner, to that part of the 
field occupied by the enemy. 

At this latter place, I understood that our troops 
were defending themselves, in a state of desparation, 
and was informed by the commanding officer of the 
enemy, that he would aflford them an opportunity of 
surrendering themselves, prisoners of war; to which I 
acceded. I was the more ready to make the surrender, 
that, unless done quickly, the buildings adjacent would 
be immediately set on fire, and that no responsibility 
wo ild be taken for the conduct of the savages, who 
were then assembled in great numbers. In this criti- 
cal situation, being desirous to preserve the lives of a 
number of our bi ave fellows, who still held out, I sent 
a flag to them, and agreed with the commanding officer 
of the enemy, that they should be surrendered, prison- 
ers of war, on condition of being protected from the 
savages, allowed to retain their private property, and 
having their side-arms returned to them. It is impos- 
sible for me to ascertain, with certainty, the loss we 
have sustained in this action, from the impracticability 
of knov/ing the number who made their escape. 

Thirty-live officers, and about 487 non-commissioned 
officers and privates, are prisoners of war — our loss, in 
killed, is considerable. 

However unfortunate may seem the aff'air of yester- 
day, I am flattered by a belief, that no material error 



7b 



is chargeable upon myself, and that still less censure is 
deserved by the troops I had the honor of commanding. 

With the exception of that portion of our force 
which was thrown into disorder, no troops have ever 
behaved with a more determined intrepidity. The In- 
dians have, still, a few prisoners in their possession, 
which, I hope, will be given up to Col. Proctor, at 
Sandwich. 

I have the honor, &c. 

JAS. WINCHESTER, Brig. Gen. 

Secretary of War. 



FUIITHER REPORT. 

Copy of a letter from Gen. Winchester to the Secretary of War, dated 
Fort George, U. Canada, Uth Feb. 1813. 
SIR — The first charge which my troops received, on 
the 22d ult. at the river Raisin, was from the 41st regi- 
ment of British regulars ; out of 300 of these troops, 30 
fell dead upon the field, and about one hundred wound- 
ed were removed from the ground. It is impossible to 
say how many of the Canadian militia, and his majes- 
ty's allies, fell ; but the number must have been very 
great, as they were exposed, for 4 hours, to a continued 
and heavy fire from our musquets and rifles, our men 
being behind a breast-work. The action had endured 
about a quarter of an hour, when the right division of 
our troops, who were less secured by a breast-work, 
and exposed to a heavy fire from a body of Indians and 
militia, who had possessed themselves of some out- 
houses within their reach, were obliged to retreat from 
their lines in the encampment, for the purpose of oc- 
cupying ground less exposed. This retreat being dis- 
covered by the enemy, the whole Indian force, togeth- 
er with a portion of the militia, bore down upon them 
with redoubled violence, and prevented, by their supe- 
riority of numbers, and the severity of their fire, the 
practicability of ever again forming this portion of our 
troops in order of battle. It was from this division 



76 

that our principal loss was sustained, few indeed liav- 
ino^ escaped. Every effort, in vain, was employed to 
form theai in some order of action, as at!brdin<>; the only 
means of either repellinaj the pursuers, or resjaining the 
temporary breast-work, from behind which, tlie remain- 
ini^ part of our troops still gailantly defended them- 
selves ; but every exertion was in vain employed, and 
the very few who survived, ol the party, surrendered 
as prisoners to the enemy. 

Our loss, in this action, will be ascertained by the 
list herewith erclosed. Amons; the killed, 1 have to 
lament several brave and valuable officers, some of whom 
had distin<j;uished themselves in the action of ttie evening 
of tlie l8;h, anllvll on the 22d, while unavailin^ly en- 
gaged in rallying the troops, who retreated in disorder 
from the lines. Among those, the loss of Col John Allen 
and Major Elijah M'Clannahan, is to be particularly 
regretted, as also Captain John H. Wooliolk, one of 
my aids-(le-camp ; their exertions were unsuccessful, 
nolwilhslanding every possible exertion was employ- 
ed ; they bravely fell in discharge of their respective 
duties. While I regret the fate of those who bravely 
fell upon this occasion, I should do injustice to pass 
over, without notice, the few partakers in their danger, 
who were fortunate to survive them. To Lieut. Col. 
William Lewis, who commanded on the I8tb, and to 
Captain. John Overton, my aid-de-camp, who attended 
my person on the field, my thanks are particularly due, 
for their prompt and willing exertion, during every pe- 
riod of the conflict. To the officers and soldiers, who 
bravely maintained their ground in the temporary for- 
tifications, too much praise cannot be bestowed. As- 
sailed by numbers greatly superior, supported by six 
pieces of artillery, constantly employed, they gallantly 
defended, with small arms alone, for near four hours of 
constant battle. No troops ever behaved with more 
cool and determined bravery ; from the commanding 
officer down to the private soldier, there was scarce a 
single abandonment of duty ; and at the last, when their 
ammunition was nearly exhausted, and surrounded by 



N 



77 

the enemy, greatly superior in number and the means 
of war, surrendered v^ iih a reluctance rarely to be found 
upon similar occasions. The officers commanding in 
the breasi-vvork, and who deserve particular notice, if 
disiioclion could easily be drawn, were Majors Benja- 
min Graves and George Madison ; Captains Hightower, 
Kart, \^iltiams, Cholier, Sebree, Hamilton, Keleby, 
Elecisue, Batlard, and .lames; Britrade-major .lames 
Gariard, Adjutant .Fohn M'Calla, and Quarter-master 
Pollard Keen ; they defended themselves to the last, 
with great o;ailantiy, and merit my warmest gratitude, 
as well as the highest praise of their country. 
With sentiments of the hiifhest respect, &c. 

J. W I^CHESTEU, Brig. Gen. U. S. A. 
Hon. Sec. at War. 

Our loss in killed and missing is 397 — the wounded 
being included in the list of prisoners forwarded. 



CAPTURE OF THE PEACOCK. 

Copy of alett r from Captain James Lawrence, of the U. S. Sloop of 
War Hornet, to the Secretary of the Navy. 

U. S. Ship Hornety 

Holmes' Hoky March 19, 1813. 

SIR — T have the honor to inform you of the arrival 
at this port, of the U. S ship Hornet, under my com- 
mand, from a cruise of 145 days ; and to state to you, 
that, alter ('om. Bainbridge left the coast of Brazils, 
(January 6,) I continued off the harbor of St. Salva- 
dore, blockading the Bonne Citoyenne, until the 24th, 
when the Montague, 74, hove in sight, and chased me 
into the harbor; but, night coming on, I wore, and 
stood out to the southward. 

Knowing that he had left Rio Janeiro, for the ex- 
press purpose of relieving the Bonne Citoyenne, and the 
Packet (which I had also blockaded 14 days, and 
obliged her to send her mail to Rio in a Portuguese 
smack,) I judged it most prudent to shift my cruising 



78 

ground, and hauled by the wind to the westward, with 
a view of cruising off' Pernambucca, and, on the 4th of 
February, captured the English brig Resolution, of 10 
guns, from Kio Janeiro, bound to Maranham, with cof- 
fee, jerked beef, fiour, fustic, and butter, and about 
23,000 dollars in specie. As she sailed dull, and I 
could ill spare hands to man her, I took out the money 
and set her on fire. I then ran down the coast for Ma- 
ranham, and cruised there a short time ; from thence, 
run off Surinam. After cruising off that coast, from 
the 15th until the 22d February, without meeting a 
vessel, I stood for Demarara, Avith an intention, should 
I not be fortunate on that station, to run through the 
W. Indies, on my way to the U. States ; but on the 
24th, in the morning, I discovered a brig to leeward, 
to which I gave chace ; run into quarter less four, and 
not having a pilot, was obliged to haul off, the fort, at 
the entrance of Demarara river, bearing S. W. distant 
two and a half leagues. Previous to giving up the 
chace, I discovered a vessel at anchor, without the bar, 
with English colours flying, apparently a brig of war. 
In beating round Carobana bank, in order to get to her, 
at half past 3, P. M. I discovered another sail on my 
weather quarter, edging down for us — at 4, 20, she 
hoisted English colors, at which time we discovered 
her to be a large man of war brig — beat to quarters, 
and cleared ship for action, and kept close by the wind, 
in order, if possible, to get the weather-guage — at 5, 10, 
finding I could weather the enemy, I hoisted Ameri- 
can colors, and tacked — at 5, 25, in passing each other, 
exchanged broadsides, within half pistol shot. Observ- 
ing the enemy in the act of wearing, I bore up, receiv- 
ed his starboard broadside, run him close on board, on 
the starboard quarter, and kept up such a heavy and 
well-directed fire, that in less than 15 minutes she sur- 
rendered, (being totally cut to pieces) and hoisted an 
ensign union down from his fore rigging, as a signal of 
distress. Shortly after, her main mast went by the 
board— dispatched Lieut. Shubrick on board, who soon 
i-eturned with her 1st Lieut, who reported her to be his 



79 

B. M. late brig Peacock, commanrled by Capt. Williaiii 
Peake, who fell in the latter part of the action ; that a 
number of her crew were killed and wounded, and that 
she was sinking fast, she having then six feet water in 
her hold — dispatched the boats immediately for the 
wounded, and brought both vessels to anchor. Such 
shot-holes as could be got at, were then plugged, guns 
thrown overboard, and every possible exertion used to 
keep her afloat, until the prisoners could be remaved, 
by pumping and bailing — but without effect, as she un- 
fortunately sunk, in five and a half fathoms water, car- 
rying down 13 of her crew, and three of my brave fel- 
lows, viz. John Hart, Joseph Williams, and Hannibal 
Boyd. Lieut. Conner and Midshipman Cooper, and 
the remainder of my men, employed in removing the 
prisoners, with difficulty saved themselves, by jumping 
into a boat that was lying on the booms, as she went 
down. Four men, of the 13 mentioned, were so fortu- 
nate as to gain the fore-top, and were afterwards taken 
ofi' by our boats. Previous to her going down, four of 
her men took to her stern boat, that had been much 
damaged during the action, who, I sincerely hope, 
reached the shore ; but, from the heavy sea, running at 
that time, the shattered state of the boat, and difficulty 
of landing on the coast, I am fearful they were lost. — 
I have not been able to ascertain, from her officers, the 
exact number of killed. Capt. Peake, and 4 men, were 
found dead on board ; the Master, one Midshipman, 
Carpenter and Captain's Clerk, and 29 men wounded, 
most of thern very severely, 3 of which died of their 
wounds after being removed, and 9 drowned. — Our 
loss was trifling, in comparison ; John Place killed, 
Samuel Coulson, and .Jos. Dalrymple, slightly wound- 
ed ; our rigging and sails were very much cut ; one 
shot through the foremast, and bow^sprit slightly injured. 
Our hull received little or no damage. 

At the time 1 brought the Peacock to action, the 
Espeigle, (the brig mentioned as being at anchor,) 
mounting sixteen 32lb. carronades, and 2 long nines, 
lay about 6 miles in shore of me, and could plainly see 
the whole of the action. — Apprehensive she would beat 



80 

out to the assistance of her consort, such exertions were 
used by my officers and crew, In repairing damages, &c. 
that by nine o'clock our boats were stowed, a new set of 
sails bent, and the ship completely ready for action. At 
2, P. M. got under way, and stood by the wind to the 
northward and westward, under easy sail. On mustering 
next morning, found we had 277 souls on board, (Includ- 
ing the crew of the American brig Hunter, of Poitland, 
taken a few days before, by the Peacock,) and, as we had 
been on two-thirds allowance of provisions, for some time, 
and had but 3,400 gallons of water on board, I reduced 
the allowance to 3 pints a man, and determined to make 
the best of my way to the U. States. 

The Peacock was deservedly styled one of the finest 
vessels of her class In the British navy. I should judge 
her to be about the tonnage of the Hornet ; her beam 
was greater, by 5 Inches, but her extreme length not so 
great, by 4 feet. She mounted sixteen 24 pr. carronades, 
2 long nines, one 12 pr. carronade on her top-gallant 
forecastle, as a shifting gun, and one 4, or 6 pounder, and 
2 swivels, mounted aft. I find, by her quarter bill, that 
her crew consisted of 134 men, 4 of whom were absent in 
a prize. 

The cool and determined conduct of my officers and 
crew, during the action, and their almost unexampled ex- 
ertions afterwards, entitle them to my warmest acknow- 
ledgments; and I beg leave, most earnestly, to recom- 
mend them to the notice of government. 

By the Indisposition of Lieut. Stewart, I was deprived 
of the services of an excellent officer ; had he been able 
to stand on the deck, I am confident his exertions would 
not have been surpassed by any one on board. I should 
be doing injustice to the merits of Lieut. Shubrick, and 
acting Lieutenants Conner and Newton, were I not to re- 
commend them particularly to your notice. Lieut. Shu- 
brick was In the actions with the Guerriere and Java — 
Captain Hull, and Commodore Balnbrldge can bear tes- 
timony as to his coolness and good conduct on both occasions. 

With the greatest respect, 1 am, &c. 
How. W. Joms, Sec. Navy. J AS. LAWRENCE 



81 
BATTLE OF YORK. 

Copies of letters from Major-General Henry Dearborn, to the Secreta- 
ry of War, dated 

Head-Quarters, York, Capitol of U. C 

April 27, 1813—8 o'clock, P. M. 
SIR — ^AVe are In full possession of this place, after a 
sharp conflict, in which we lost some brave officers and 
soldiers. Gen. Sheaffe commanded the British troops, 
militia and Indians, in person. — We shall be prepared to 
sail for the next object of the expedition, the first favoura- 
ble wind. I have to lament the loss of the brave and ac- 
tive Brig Gen. Pike. 

I am, &;c. 



H. DEARBORN. 



Hon. J. Armstrong. 



O' 



Head-Quarters, York, Capitol of U. C. 
April 28, 1813. 

SIR — After a detention of some daj$, bj adverse winds, 
we arrived at this place yesterday morning, and at eight 
o'clock commenced landing the troops, about three miles 
westward from the town, and one and a half from the 
enemy's works. The wind was high, and in an unfavora- 
ble direction for the boats, which prevented the landing 
the troops at a clear field, the scite of the ancient French 
fort Tarento ; it prevented, also, many of the armed ves- 
sels from taking positions, which would have, most effec- 
tually, covered our landing — but every thing that could 
be done was eifected. 

The riflemen, under Major Forsyth, first landed, un- 
der a heavy fire from Indians, and other troops. General 
Sheaffe commanded in person : he had collected his whole 
force in the woods, near the point where the wind com- 
pelled our troops to land ; his force consisted of 700 re- 
gulars and militia, and 100 Indians. Major Forsyth was 
supported as promptly as possible ; but the contest was 
sharp and severe for nearly half an hour, and the enemy 
were repulsed by a number far inferior to theirs. As soon 

L 



82 

as Gen. Pike landed, with 7 or 800 men, and the remain- 
der of the troops were pushing for the shore, the enemy 
retreated to their works. Our troops were now formed 
on the ground, originally intended for their landing, ad- 
vanced through a thick wood, and after carrying one bat- 
tovj by assault, were moving in columns towards the main 
work ; when within 60 rods of this, a tremendous explo- 
sion took place, from a magazine previously prepared, and 
/wliich threw out such immense quantities of stone, as most 
f-eriously to injure our troops. I have not yet been able 
•o collect the returns of the killed and wounded ; but our 
loss will, I fear, exceed 100 ; and arbong these, I have to 
Irment the loss of that brave and excellent officer. Brig. 
Gen. Pike, who received a contusion from a large stone, 
which terminated his valuable life within a few hours. — 
Previously to this explosion, the enemy had retired into 
the town, excepting a party of regulars, to the number of 
ibrty, who did not escape the shock, and were destroyed. 
Gen. Sheaffe moved off, with the regular troops, and left 
directions with the commanding officer of the militia, to 
make the best terms lie could. In the mean time, all fur- 
ther resistance, on the part of the enemy, ceased ; and the 
outlines of a Capitulation were agreed on. 

As soon as I learned that Gen. Pike had been wounded,. 
I went on shore; to the General, I had been induced to 
confide the immediate attack, from a knowledge that it 
Vi^as his wish, and that lie would have felt mortified had 
it not been given to him. 

' Our loss in the morning, and in carrying the first batte- 
ry, was not great ; perhaps 40 or 50 killed and wounded, 
and of them a full proportion of officers. Notwithstand- 
ino- the enemy's advantage in position, and numbers, in 
the commencement of the action, their loss was greater 
than om's, especially in officers. 

I am under the greatest obligations to Com. Chauncey, 
for his able and indefatigable exertions, in every possible 
manner which could give facility and effect to the expedi- 
tion ; he is equally estimable for sound judgment, bravery, 
and industry ; the government could not have made a 

more fortunate selection. 



83 

Unfortunately the enemj's armed ship, Prince Regent, 
left this place, for Kingston, a few days before we arrived. 
A large ship, on the stocks, and nearly 'planked up, and 
much naval stores, were set fire to by the enemy, soon 
after the explosion of the magazine ; a considerable quan- 
tity of military stores, and provisions, remain, but no. ves- 
sels fit for use. 

We have not the means of tmnsporting the prisoners, 
and must, of course, leave them on parole. 

I hope we shall so far complete what is necessary to be 
done here, as to be able to sail to-morrow for Niagara, 
whither I send this, by a small vessel, with notice to Gen. 
Lewis, of our approach. 

I have the honor, &c. 

H. DEARBORN. 

Hon. Sec. Wai'. 



TRANSPORTATION OF TROOPS TO YORK. 

Copy of a letter fro?n Commodore Chauncey, to the Secretary of the Navy. 
U. S. Ship Madison^ at anchor, 

Off York, 2Sih April 1S13. 
' SIR — Agreeably to your instructions, and arrange- 
ments, made v.ith Major-General Dearborn, I took on 
board the squadron, under my command, the General and 
suite, and about 1700 troops, and left Sacket's Harbor oii 
the 25th inst. for this place. We arrived here yesterday 
morning, and took a position about one mile to the souil^ 
and westward of the enemy's principal fort, and as nea ■ 
the shore as we could, with safety to the vessel;. The 
place fixed upon, by the Maj. Gen. and myself, for land- 
ing the troops, was the scite of the old French fort, Ta- 
ranta. The debarkation commenced about 8 o'clock, A. 
M. and was completed about 10 ; the wind bio v/ing heavy 
from the eastward, the boats fell to leeward of the posi- 
tion fixed upon, and were, in consequence, exposed to a 
galling fire from the enemy, who had taken a position in 
a thick wood, near where the first troops landed ; how- 
ever, the cool intrepidity of the officers and men, over- 



84 

came every obstacle. Their attack upon the enemy was 
so vigorous, that he fled in every direction, leaving a great 
many of his killed and wounded upon the field. As soon 
as the troops were landed, I directed the schooners to take 
a position near the forts, in order that the attack upon 
them, by the army and navy, might be simultaneous. The 
schooners were obliged to beat up to their position, which 
they did in very handsome order, under a very heavy fire 
from the enemy's batteries, and took a position within 
about 600 yards of their principal fort, and opened a 
heavy cannonade upon the enemy, which did great execu- 
tion, and very much contributed to their final destruction. 

The troops, as soon as landed, were formed under the 
immediate orders of Gen. Pike, who led, in a most gallant 
manner, the attack upon the forts, and after having car- 
ried two redoubts, in their approach to the principal work, 
(the enemy having previously laid a train,) blew up his 
magazine, which, in its effects upon our troops, was dread- 
ful, having killed and wounded many ; and among the for- 
mer, the ever to be lamented Brig. Gen. Pike. His death, 
at this time, is much to be regretted, as he had the per- 
fect confidence of the Major-General ; and his own activity, 
zeal, and experience, make his loss a national one. 

In consequence of the fall of Gen. Pike, the command 
of the troops devolved, for a time, upon Col. Pierce, who 
soon after took possession of the town. At about 2, P. 
M. the American flag was substituted for the British, and, 
at about 4, our troops were in quiet possession of the 
town. 

As soon as Gen. Dearborn learnt the situation of Gen. 
Pike, he landed, and assumed the command.^ — I have the 
honor of enclosing a copy of the capitulation, which was 
entered into, and approved by General Dearborn, and 
myself. 

The enemy set fire to some of his principal stores, con- 
taining large quantities of naval and military stores, as 
well as a large ship, upon the stocks, and nearly finished. 
The only vessel found there, is the Duke of Gloucester, 
undergoing repairs ; the Prince Regent left here, on the 
24th, for Kingston. We have not yet had a return made 



85 

of the naval and military stores, consequently can form no 
correct idea of the quantity, but have made arrangements 
to have all taken on board, that we can receive — the rest 
will be destroyed. I have to regret the death of Midship* 
men Thompson and Hatfield, and several seamen killed ; 
the returns from the different vessels have not yet been 
made. 

I cannot speak in too mucli praise of the cool intrepedi- 
ty of the officers and m2n, generally, under my command ; 
and I feel myself particularly indebted to the officers, 
commanding vessels, for their zeal in seconding all my 
views. 

I have the honor, &;c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 

Hon. W. Jones. 

On board the squadron, there were 4 killed, and 8 
wounded — total, 12. 

TERMS OF CAPITULATION, 
Entered into, on the 27th of April, 1813, for the surrender of the 
town of York, in Upper Canada, to the Army and Navy of the U. 
States, under the command of Maj. Gen. Dearborn, and Commo- 
dore Chauncey. 

That the troops, regular and militia, at this post, and 
the naval officers and seamen, shall be surrendered prison- 
ers of war — the troops, regular and militia, to ground their 
arms, immediately on parade, and the naval officers and 
seamen be immediately surrendered. 

That all public stores, naval and military, shall be im- 
mediately given up, to the commanding officers of the ar- 
my and navy of the U. States ; all private property shall 
be guaranteed to the citizens of the town of York. 

That all papers belonging to the civil officers, shall be 
retained by them ; — that such surgeons, as may be pro- 
cured to attend the wounded of the British regulars, and 
Canadian militia, shall not be considered prisoners of war. 

That 1 Lieut. Colonel, 1 Major, 13 Captains, 9 Lieuten- 
ants, 11 Ensigns, 1 Quarter-master, 1 Dep. Adj. General, 
of the militia, 19 sergeants, 4 corporals, and 204 rank and 
file ; of the field train department, 1 ; of the provincial 



86 

navy, 1 Captain, 1 Lieutenant, 2 Midshipmen, 1 Captain's 
Clerk, 1 Boatswain, 15 naval artificers. Of his majesty's 
regular troops, 1 Lieutenant, 1 Sergeant-Major; and of 
the royal artillery, 1 Bombardier, and 3 Gunners, shall 
be surrendered as prisoners of war, and accounted for in 
the exchange of prisoners, between the United States and 
Great Britain. 



(Signed) 



G. S. MITCHELL, Lieut. Col. 3d, A. U. S. 
SAML. S. CONNER, Maj. and Aid to Geu. Dearborn. 
WM. KING, Major, 15 U. S. Infantry. 
JE6SE D. ELLIOT, Lieut. U S. Nary. 

W. CHEWITT, Lieut. Col comg. 3d Reg. York M. 
W. ALLEN, Maj. 3d Reg. York Militia, 
F. GAURREAU, Lieut. M. Dpt. 



Our loss was, 14 killed in battle, and 38 by the explo- 
sion— 32 wounded in battle, and 222 by the explosion ; 
total, killed and wounded, 306. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT. 

Extract of a letter from Maj. General Henri/ Dearborn, to the Secre- 
tary/ of War, dated 

Niagara, May 3d, 
As nearly as I have been able to ascertain, the loss of 
che enemy, in the late affair of York, amounted to 100 
killed, 200 prisoners, and 300 wounded. I have not been 
able to ascertain, precisely, the amount of militia put on 
their parole ; I presume it could not be less than 500. — 
There was an immense depot of naval and military stores. 
York was a magazine for Niagara, Detroit, &c. and, not- 
withstanding the immense amount which was destroyed 
by them, we found more than we could bring off. Gen. 
Sheaffe's baggage and papers fell into my hands. The 
papers are a valuable acquisition. — A SCALP was found 
in the Executive and Legislative Council Chamber, sus- 
pended near the speaker's chair, in company with the 
mace. 

H. DEARBORN. 



a7 

AMERICAN PROTECTION 

Head-Quarters^ Baltimore, Sth May. i8Li\ 
SIR — It becomes my duty to represent to your exce> 
lency, that a citizen of the U. States, and an inhabitani i " 
Havre-de-Grace for the last fifteen years, named O'Neale . 
has been recently taken in arms, and in defence of his pro- 
perty and family, at that place, by a detachment from his 
fe. M. fleet, serving under your command ; and that the 
said O'Neale has been menaced with immediate and capi- 
tal punishment, as a traitor to the government of his B. M. 
on the ground of his being, by birth, ai> Irishman. No- 
thing, in the course of public duty, would be more pain- 
ful to me, than the obligation of resorting to the law of re- 
taliation on this, or any other occasion ; but. Sir, in the 
event of O'Neale's execution, painful as may be the duty, 
it becomes unavoidable : and I am authorized and com- 
manded to state to your excellency, that two British sub- 
jects shall be selected, by lot or otherwise, and immedi- 
ately executed. 

It is for your excellency to choose, whether a charac- 
ter of such barbarism be, or be not given to the war, 
waged under your immediate direction. 
I am, &c. 

HENRY MILLER, Brig. Gen. 
His Ex. J. B. Warren. 



ANSWER. 

H. M. S. San Domingo, May 10, 1813. 
SIR — I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, 
of the Sth inst. respecting a man named O'Neale, taken 
by a detachment irom the squadron, under the orders of 
Rear Admiral Cockburn. This man has been released, 
upon the application of the magistrates of Havre-de-Grace, 
on parole. I was not informed of this man being an Irish- 
man, or he would certainly have been detained, to account 
to his sovereign and country, for being in arms against the 
British colors. I am, &c. 

J. B. WARREN. 



88 
GEN. HARRISON'S ARMY. 

Copy of a letter from Gen. Harrison, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Head-Quarters, Camp Meigs, 9th May, 1813. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that the enemy, 
havino" been several days making preparations for raising 
the siege of this post, accompHshed this day the removal 
of their artillery, from the opposite bank, and about 12 
o'clock left their encampment below, were soon embark- 
ed, and out of sight. — I have the honor to enclose you an 
agreement between Gen. Proctor and myself, for the dis- 
charge of the prisoners of the Kentucky militia, in his pos- 
session, and for the exchange of the officers and men of 
the regular troops, which were respectively possessed by 
us. My anxiety to get the Kentucky troops released, as 
early as possible, induced me to agree to the dismission of 
all the prisoners I had, although there was not as many of 
ours, in Gen. Proctor's possession ; the surplussage is to 
be accounted for, and an equal number of ours released 
from their parole, whenever the government may think 
proper to direct it. 

The two actions on this side the river, on the 5th, were 
infinitely more important, and more honorable to our arms, 
than I had at first conceived. In the sortie made upon the 
left flank, Capt. Waring's company of the 19th regiment, 
a detachment of 12 months volunteers, under Major Alex- 
ander, and three companies of Kentucky militia, under 
Col. Boswell, defeated, at least, double the number of In- 
dians and British militia. The sortie on the right was 
still more glorious. The British batteries, in that direc- 
tion, were defended by the grenadier and light infantry 
companies, of the 41st regiment, amounting to 200 effec- 
tives, and two companies of militia, flanked by a host of 
Indians. The detachment sent to attack these, consisted 
of all the men off* duty, belonging to the companies of 
Croghan and Bradford, of the 17th regiment, Langham, 
Elliott's, (late Graham's,) and Waring's, of the 19th, about 
80 of Major Alexander's volunteers, and a single compa- 
ny of Kentucky militia, under Captain Sebry, amounting, 
in the whole, to not more than 340. Yet the event of the 



89 

action was not a moment doubtful ; and, had not the Bri- 
tisli troops been covered in their retreat, bj their allies^ 
the whole of them would have been taken. 

It is not possible for troops to behave better than our's 
did, throughout; all the officers exerted themselves to ex- 
ecute my orders, and the enemy, who had a full view of 
our operations, from the opposite shore, declared that they 
had never seen so much work done, in so short a time. 

To all the commandants of corps, I feel particular obli- 
gations; these were Col. Miller, of the 19th infantry. Col. 
Mills, of the Ohio militia. Major Stoddart, of the artillery, 
Major Ball, of the dragoons, and Major Johnson, of the 
Kentucky militia. 

Captain Gratiot, of the engineers, having been, for a 
long time, much indisposed, the task of fortifying this post 
devolved on Captain Wood ; it could not have been placed 
in better hands. Permit me to recommend him to the 
President, and to assure you that any mark of his appro- 
bation, bestowed on Captain Wood, would be highly gra- 
tifying to the whole of the troops, who witnessed his ar- 
duous exertions. 

From Major Hukill, my aid-de-camp Major Graham, 
Lieutenant O'Fallon, and my volunteer aid -de-camp John 
Johnson, Esq. I received the most useful assistance. 

I have the honor to enclose you a list of the killed and 
wounded, during the siege, and in the two sorties ; those 
of the latter were much greater than I had at first ex- 
pected. 

Want of sleep, and the exposures to the continued rains 
which have fallen almost every day, for some time past, 
renders me incapable of mentioning many interesting par- 
ticulars ; amongst others, a most extraordinary proposi- 
tion of Gen. Proctor's, on the subject of the Indians, Avith- 
in our boundary ; this shall form the subject of a commu- 
nication, to be made to-morrow or next day, and for which 
I will provide a safer conveyance than that which carries 
this. 

All the prisoners and deserters agree in saying, that 
the information given to Major Stoddard, by Ryland, of 

]VI 



90 

the Bi itish having launched a sloop of war, this spring, {& 
incorrect; the most of them say, that the one now build- 
ing win not be launched for many weeks. 
I am, &c. 

W. H. HARRISON. 
Hon. J, Armstrong. 

In the seiege, and the several sorties of the 5th instant, 
there was 81 killed, and 189 wounded — total, killed and 
wounded, 270. 



FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

Copy of a Dispatch, from Maj. General William H. Harrison, to the 
Secretary of War, dated 

Head-Quarter Sy Lower Sandusky^ 

May 13, 1813. 

SIR — Having ascertained that the enemy (Indians as 
well as British,) had entirely abandoned the neighbor- 
hood of the Rapids, I left the command of Camp Meigs 
with General Clay, and came here last night. It is with 
the greatest satisfaction I inform you. Sir, that I have eve- 
ry reason to believe that the loss of the Kentucky troops, 
in killed, on the north side of the river, does not exceed 
fifty. On the 10th and 11th inst. I caused the ground, 
which was the scene of action, and its environs, to be care- 
fully examined ; and, after the most diligent search, 45 
bodies only, of our men, were discovered ; amongst them 
was the leader of the detachment. Col. Dudley. No 
other officer of note fell in the action. I have strong rea- 
son to believe, that a considerable number of Kentucki- 
ans effected their retreat up the river, to fort Winchester. 
General Proctor did not furnish me with a return of the 
prisoners in his possession, although repeatedly promised. 

His retreat was as precipitate as it could properly be, 
leaving a number of cannon-balls, a new elegant sling- 
carriage, for cannon, and other valuable articles. The 
night before his departure, two persons that were employ- 
ed in the British gun-boats, (Americans by birth) desert- 



91 

ed to us — the information they gave me was very inter- 
esting; they say that the Indians, 1600, or 2000, left the 
British, the day before their departure, in a high state of 
dissatisfaction, from tlie great loss which they had sustain- 
ed in the several engagements of the 5th, and the failure 
of the British, in accomphshing their promise, of taking 
the post at the Rapids. From the account given by these 
men, my opinion is confirmed of the great superiority of 
the enemy, which were defeated by our troops in the two 
salhes, made on the 5th instant. That, led by Col. Miller, 
did not exceed 350 men ; and it is very certain that they 
defeated 200 British regulars, 150 militia men, and 4 or 
500 Indians. That American regulars, (although they 
were raw recruits,) and such men as compose the Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. and Petersburgh, Va. volunteers, should be- 
have well, is not to be wondered at; but, that a company 
of militia should mantain its ground, against four times its 
numbers, as did Captain Sebre's, of the Kentucky, is truly 
astonishing. These brave fellows were at length, how- 
ever, entirely surrounded by Indians, and w ould have been 
entirely cut off, but for the gallantry of Lieut. Gwynne, 
of the 19th regiment, who, with a part of Captain Elliott's 
company, charged the enemy, and released the Kentucki- 
ans. — You will receive, herewith, a monthly return of the 
troops, at Camp Meigs, for the last month ; the commu- 
nication with the other posts being cut off, the returns 
were not received. A copy of Gen. Clay's report to me, 
of the manner of his executing my order, for the attack on 
the enemy's batteries, is likewise forwarded, by which it 
will be seen that my intentions were perfectly understood ; 
and the great facility with which they might have been 
executed, is apparent to every individual who witnessed 
the scene ; indeed, the cannon might have been spiked, 
the carriages cut to pieces, the magazine destroyed, and 
the retreat effected to the boats, without the loss of a man, 
as none were killed in taking the batteries — so complete 
w^as the surprize. 

An extensive open plain intervenes, between the river 
and the hill, upon which the batteries of the enemy were 
placed ; this plain was raked by 4 of our 1 8 pounders, a. 



92 

12, and a 6; the enemy, even before their guns were 
spiked, couid not have brought one to bear upon it. So 
perfectly secured was their retreat, that 150 men, who 
came otf, effected it without loss, and brought off some of 
the wounded, one of them upon the backs of his comrades. 
The Indians followed them to the woods, but dared not 
enter into the plain. 

I am unable to form a correct estimate of the enemy's 
force. The prisoners varied much in their accounts ; 
those who made them least, stated the regulars at 550, 
and the militia at 800 ; but the number of Indians were 
beyond comparison greater than have ever been brought 
into the field before ; numbers arrived after the siege com- 
menced. I have caused their camps, on the S. E. side 
of the river, to be particularly examined, and the general 
opinion is, that there could not have been fewer en, that 
side, than 10 or 1200 — they were, indeed the efficient 
force of the enemy. 

I am sorry to inform you, that Major Stoddard died the 
ni^ht before I left the Rapids, of a lock-jaw, produced by 
a slio^ht wound, from a fragment of a shell, which struck 
him on the thigh ; several haVe died m this way, from their 
great and unavoidable exposure to the cold ; but, per- 
haos, there were never so many instances of desperate 
wounds being likely to do well. The gallant Captain 
Bradford will recover. 

I shall go from here to Upper Sandusky, and shall take 
my station at Delaware, or Franklinton, until the troops 
are assembled. Gen. Clay, Vv^ho commands at the Rapids, 
is a man of capacity, and entirely to be relied upon. 

I have the honor, &c. WM. H. HARRISON. 

Hon. J. Armstrong., Sec. War. 



GENERAL CLAY'S REPORT. 

Copy of a letter from Gen. Clay to Gen. Harrison. 

Camp at Fort Meigs, May —,1813. 
SIR — On the 5th instant, about 8 o'clock, A. M, de- 
scending the Miami of the lake, about midway of the Ra- 



93 

pids, with 1200 of the Kentucky troops, in eighteen flat 
bottomed boats, I was met by Capt. Hamihon, and a sub- 
altern, who dehvered me (as he said) the orders of Maj. 
Gen. Harrison, to the following effect : 

" You must detach about 800 men from your brigade, 
who will land at a point I will show, about one, or one 
and a half miles above the fort, and I will conduct them 
to the British batteries, on the left bank of the river — 
they must take possession of the enemy's cannon, spike 
them, cut down the carriages, and return to their boats," 
observing that the British force, at their large batteries, 
was inconsiderable; but that their main force was at the 
old garrison, about one and a half miles below, on the 
same side of the river — " the balance of the men, under 
your command, must land on the right bank, opposite the 
first landing, and will fight their way, through the Indians, 
to the fort" — observing that the route, thus to be taken, 
would be shown by a subaltern officer there, in company 
with Captain Hamilton, who would land the perouge at 
the point on the right bank, at which the boats would 
land. 

The order of descending the river in boats, was the 
same as the order of march, in line of battle, in solid co- 
lumn, each officer taking position according to his rank. 
Col. Dudley, the eldest Colonel, led the van, and in this 
order, the river had been descended. As soon as Captain 
Hamilton had delivered these orders, being in the thir- 
teenth boat from the front, I directed him to proceed im- 
mediately to Col. Dudley, and order him to take the men 
in the 12 front boats, and execute Gen. Harrison's orders, 
on the left bank of the river; and post his (Capt. Hamil- 
ton's) subaltern on the right bank, to conduct myself, 
with the men in the six rear boats, to the fort. I ordered 
the five boats in the rear to fall in a line, and follow me. 
High winds, and the rapidity of the current, drove four of 
the rear boats ashore, in the attempt to follow on accord- 
ing to order, where they remained a short time ; sufficient, 
however, to detain them one half, or three fourths of a 
mile in the rear. — To land, according to order, I kept 
close along the right bank, until opposite Col. Dudley's 



94 

landing: there I found no guide left, to conduct me to the 
fort, as Captain Hamilton had promised. I then made an 
attempt to cross the river, and join Col. Dudley ; but, 
from me rapid current on the falls, I was unable to land 
on the point with him. Being nearly half way across the 
river, and the waves running too hi^h to risque the boat, 
then driven down the current sidewise, veered about, and 
rowed the best way we could, to save the boats. My at- 
tempt to cross the river, to Col. Dudley, occasioned all the 
boats, (I presume in the rear of me,) and which were 
then out of hailing distance, to cross over, and land with 
Col. Dudley, Having been defeated in a landing on the 
[ei't, we then endeavored to effect one on the right, even 
without a guide ; but, before a landing could be effected, 
we received a brisk fire from the enemy on shore, which 
Avas returned, and kept up on both sides ; and I was, in 
this unavoidable situation, compelled to make to Fort 
Meigs, with no other force than about 50 men on board, 
(the other boats being still in the rear) and to receive the 
enemy's fire, until we arrived under the protection of the 
fort. Col. Bos well's command (except the men in my 
boat,) having landed, to join Col. Dudley, were, as I have 
been informed, ordered, by Captain Hamilton, immediate- 
ly to embark, and land on the right hand shore, about a 
mile above the fort, and prepare to fight his way through 
to the garrison. The Colonel embarked, landed, as he 
conceived, at the proper point, pursuant to Captain Ham- 
ilton's order, and was forming Iiis men in order of battle, 
when he was met by Captain Shaw, and ordered to march 
into the garrison, at open order, the safest route. 

When my own boat landed, we were met by two men, 
who took charge of the boat, as we understood, to bring 
her under the protection of the fort batteries ; believing 
our baggage to be thus made safe, we forbid our servants 
to carry any portion of it ; but loaded them with cannon- 
balls, which they bore to the fort. Our baggage was, 
however, taken by the Indians, in a very short time after 
we left the boat. In receiving the orders of Capt. Hamil- 
ton, I asked if he had brought spikes, to spike the ene- 
my's cannon ? to which he replied, that he had plenty. 



95 

Captain Hamilton, on delivering the orders of General 
Harrison, observed, that the object of landing, and 
marching a portion of the troops on the right bank, was 
to draw the attention of the Indians ; and, by thus en- 
gaging them, afford an opportunity to the garrison to 
make a sally; and, by a circuitous route, surprize and 
carry the batteries, and cannon of the enemy, below the 
fort, on the right bank. 

1 am, respectfully, &c. 

GREEN CLAY, Brig. Gen. 
His Ex. Maj. Gen. Harrison. 
(A true Copy) 

G. CROGHAN, A. D. C. 

TAKING OF FORT GEORGE. 

Copies of letters fT9m Commodore Chauncey, to the Secretary of the 

Navy. 

U. S. Skip Madison, 

Niagara River, '11th May, 1813. 

SIR — I am happy to have it in my power to say, 

that the American flag is flying upon fort George. We 

were in quiet possession of all the forts at 12 o'clock. 

I have the honor, &c. 

I. CHAUNCEY. 



U. S. S. 31adison, 28/A 3Iay, 181 3. 
SIR — Agreeably to arrangements, which I have al- 
ready had the honor of detailing to you, I left Sacket's 
Harbor, with this ship, on the 22d inst. with about 350 
of Col. M'Comb's regiment on board ; the winds being 
light from the westward, 1 did not arrive in the vicinity 
of Niagara, before the 25th ; the other parts of the 
squadron had arrived, several days before, and landed 
their troops. The Fair Anierican, and Pert, I had or- 
dered to Sacket's Harbor, for the purpose of watching 
the enemy's movements at Kingston. I immediately 
had an interview with Gen. Dearborn, for the purpose 
of making arrangements to attack the enemy, as soon as 



96 

possible ; and it was agreed, between him and myself, 
to make the attack the moment that the weather was 
such as to allow the vessels and boats to approach the 
shore with safety. On the 26th, I reconnoitered the 
position for landing the troops, and at night sounded 
the shore, and placed buoys to sound out the stations 
for the small vessels. It was agreed, between the Gene- 
ral and myself, to make the attack the next morning, 
(as the weather had moderated, and had every appear- 
ance of being favorable.) T took on board of the Ma- 
dison, Oneida, and Lady of the Lake, all the heavy ar- 
tillery, and as many troops as could be stowed ; the 
remainder were to embark in boats, and follow the 
fleet. At 3, yesterday morning, the signal was made 
for the fleet to weigh, and the troops were all embarked 
on board the boats before 4, and soon after Gens. Dear- 
born and Lewis came on board this ship, with their 
suites. It being, however, nearly calm, the schooners 
were obliged to sweep into their positions. Mr. Trant, 
in the Julia, and Mr. Mix, in the Growler, I directed 
to take a position in the mouth of a river, and silence 
a battery, near the light-house, which, from its position, 
commanded the shore where our troops were to land. 
Mr. Stevens, in the Ontario, was directed to take a po- 
sition to the north of the light-house, so near in shore 
as to enfilade the battery, and cross the fire of the .Ju- 
lia and Growler. Lieutenant Brown, in the Governor 
Tompkins, I directed to take a position near to Two 
Mile Creek, where the enemy had a battery, with a 
heavy gun. Lieutenant Pettigrew, in the Conquest, 
was directed to anchor to the S. E. of the same batte- 
ry, so near in, as to open on it in the rear, and cross the 
fire of the Governor Tompkins. Lieutenant M'Pher- 
son, in the Hamilton, Lieut. Smith, in the Asp, and Mr. 
Osgood, in the Scourge, were directed to anchor close 
to the shore, and cover the landing of the troops ; and 
to scour the woods and plain, whenever the enemy 
made his appearance. All these orders were most 
promptly and gallantly executed ; all the vessels an- 
chored within musquet-shot of the shore, and in ten 



97 

miiiules after they opened the batteries, they were com- 
pletely silenced and abandoned. Our troops then ad- 
vanced in three brigades, the advance led by Colonel 
Scott, and landed near the fort, which had been silenced 
by Lieut. Brown. 

The enemy, who had been concealed by a ravine, 
noAV advanced, in great force, to the edge of the bank, 
to charge our troops ; the schooners opened such a 
well-directed and tremendous fire of grape and canis- 
ter, that the enemy soon retreated from the bank. Our 
troops formed as soon as they landed, and immediately 
ascended the bank — charged, and routed the enemy in 
every direction, the schooners keeping up a constant 
and well-directed fire upon him, in his retreat to the 
town. Owing to the wind having sprung up very fresh 
from the eastward, which caused a heavy sea, directly 
on shore, I was not able to get the boats off, to land the 
troops from the Madison and Oneida, before the first 
and second brigades had advanced. Captain Smith, 
with the marines, landed with Col. M'Comb's regiment, 
and I had prepared 400 seamen, which I intended to 
land with myself, if the enemy had made a stand ; but 
our troops pursued him so rapidly into the town, and 
fort George, that I found there was no necessity for 
more force ; moreover, the wind had increased so much, 
and hove such a sea on shore, that the situation of the 
lleet had become dangerous and critical. I, there- 
fore, made signal for the fleet to weigh, and ordered 
them into the river, where they anchored, immediately 
after the enemy had abandoned fort George. The 
town and furts, were in quiet possession of our troops 
at 12 o'clock, and the enemy retreated in a direction 
towards Queenstown. 

Where all behaved so well, it is difficult to select 
any one for commendation ; yet, in doing justice to 
Lieut. Macpherson, [ do not detract from the merits of 
others. He was fortunate in placing himself in a situ- 
ation, where he rendered very important service, in co- 
vering the troops so completely, that their loss was 
trifling. Captain Perry joined me, from Erie, on the 

N 



98 

evening of the 251li, and very gallantly volunteered his 
services ; and I have much pleasure in acknowledging 
the great assistance which I received from him, in ar- 
ranging and superintending the debarkation of the 
troops ; he was present at every point where he could 
be useful, under showers of musquetry ; but, fortunate- 
ly, escaped unhurt. We lost but one killed, and two 
wounded, and no injury done to the vessels. 
I have the honor, &c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 



FURTHER REPORT. 

Copies of letters from Maj. General Dearborti, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

Head-Quarter Sy Fort George^ 

U.Canada, May 27, 1813. 

SIR — The light troops, under the command of Col. 
Scott and Maj. Forsyth, landed this morning, at nine 
o'clock, Maj. Gen. Lewis' division, with Col. Por- 
ter's command of light artillery, supported them. Gen. 
Boyd's brigade landed immediately after the light 
troops, and Generals Winder and Chandler followed in 
quick succession. The landing was warmly and obsti- 
nately disputed by the British forces ; but the coolness 
and intrepidity of our troops, soon compelled them to 
give ground in every direction. 

General Chandler, with the reserve, (composed of 
his brigade, and Col. M'Comb's artillery) covered the 
whole. — Com. Chauncey had made the most judicious 
arrangements for silencing the enemy's batteries, near 
the point of landing The army is under the greatest 
obligations to that able naval commander, for his co- 
operation in all its important movements, and especial- 
ly in its operations this day. Our batteries succeeded 
in rendering fort George untenable; and, when the ene- 
my had been beaten from his positions, and found it ne- 
cessary to re-enter it, after firing a few guns, and setting 
fire to the magazines, which soon exploded, he moved 



99 

off rapidly by different routes ; our light troops pui- 
sued them several miles. The troops having been un- 
der arms, from one o'clock in the morning, were too 
much exhausted for any further pursuit. We are now 
in possession of fort George, and its immediate depen- 
dencies ; to-morrow we shall proceed further on. The 
behaviour of our troops, both officers and men, entitle 
them to the highest praise ; and the difference in our 
loss, with that of the enemy, when we consider the ad- 
vantages his position afforded him, is astonishing : — we 
had 17 killed, and 45 wounded — the enemy had 90 kil- 
led, and 1 60 wounded, of the regular troops. We have 
taken 100 prisoners, exclusive of the wounded. Col. 
Meyers, of the 49th, was wounded and taken prisoner ; 
of ours, only one commissioned officer was killed — 
Lieut. Hobart, of the light artillery. Enclosed is the 
report of Major-General Lewis. 

I have the honor, &;c. 

H. DEARBORN. 
^071. Gen. J. Armstrong. 



GEN. LEWIS' REPORT. 

On the Field, 1 o'clock, 27th May, 1813. 

DEAR SIR — Fort George and its dependencies are 
ours; the enemy, beaten at all points, has blown up 
his magazines, and retired. It is impossible, at this 
time, to say any thing of individual gallantry ; there 
was no man who did not perform his duty in a manner 
which did honor to himself and country. Scott's and 
Forsyth's commands, supported by Boyd's and Win- 
der's brigades, sustained the brunt of the action. Our 
loss is trifling ; not more than 20 killed, and twice that 
number wounded. The enemy has left in the hospital 
124, and I sent several on board of the fleet. We have 
also made about 100 prisoners of the regular forces. 
I am, &c. 

MORGAN LEWIS. 

Maj. Gen. Dearborn, 



]00 
FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

Head-Quariers, Fort George, May 29th, 1813, 

SIR — Gen. Lewis was ordered to march yesterday 
morning, with Chandler's and Winder's brigades, the 
light ai'tillery, dragoons, and riflemen, in pursuit of the 
enemy, by way of Queenstown. I had received satis- 
factory information that the enemy had made a stand 
on the mountain, at a place called the Beaver-dam, 
where he had a deposit of provisions and stores ; and 
that he had been joined by .300 regulars, from Kings- 
ton, landed from some small vessels, near the head of 
the lake. 

I had ascertained that he was calling in the militia, 
and had presumed he would confide in the strength of 
his position, and venture an action, by which an oppor- 
tunity would be aflbrded, to cut off" his retreat. I have 
been disappointed. Although the troops, from fort 
Erie and Chippewa, had joined the main body, at Bea- 
ver-dam, he broke up yesterday, precipitately, continu- 
ed his route along the mountains, and will reach the 
head of the lake by that route. 

Lieut. Col. Preston took possession of fort Erie, and 
its dependencies, last evening ; the post had been aban- 
doned, and the magazine blown up. 

I have ordered Gen. Lewis to return, without delay, 
to this place ; and, if the winds favor us, we may yet 
cut off the enemy's retreat. I was, last evening, honor- 
ed with your dispatch of the 15th inst. I have taken 
measures in relation to the 23 prisoners, who are to be 
put in close confinement. 

I have the honor, &c. H. DEARBORN. 

Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. of War. 



DEFENCE OF SACKET'S HARBOR. 

Extract of a letter from Brig. Gen. Jacob Brown, to his Ex. Gov. 
Tompkins, dated 

SackeVs Harbor, May 29, 1813. 
We were attacked at the dawn of this day, by a Bri- 
tish regular force, of at least 900 men, (and most pro- 



101 

bably 1200;) Ihey made good their landing at Horse- 
Island. The enemy's fleet consisted of two ships, 
4 schooners, and 30 large open boats. We are com- 
pletely victorious ; the enemy lost a considerable num- 
ber in killed and wounded, on the field ; among the 
number, several officers of distinction. After having 
re-embarked, they sent me a flag, desiring to have their 
killed and wounded attended to : 1 made them satisfied 
on that subject — Americans will be distinguished for 
humanity and bravery. Our loss is not numerous, but 
serious, from the great worth of those who have fallen. 
Col. Mills was shot dead at the commencement of the 
action ; and Col. Backus, of the light dragoons, nobly 
fell at the head of his regiment, as victory was declaring 
for us. I will not presume to praise this regiment ; — 
much gallant conduct on this day, deserves more than 
praise. The new ship, and Com. Chauncey's prize, the 
Duke of Gloucester, are yet safe in Sacket's Harbor. 
Sir George Prevost landed, and commanded in person. 
Sir James L. Yeo commanded the enemy's fleet. , 
In haste — Yours, &c. 

.TACOB BROWN. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT. 

E'xtract of a letter fro7n Gen. Brown, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Socket's Harbor y June 1, 1813. 

SIR — In the course of the 28th, and during the 28th 
and 29th ult. a considerable militia force came in, and 
were ordered to the water-side, near Horse-Island, on 
which was Lieut. Col. Mills, and his volunteers. Our 
strength, at this point, was now 500 men, all anxious for 
battle, as far as profession would go. 

The moment it was light enough to discover the ap- 
proach of the enemy, we found his ships inline, between 
Horse-Island and Stoney-point, and, in a few minutes 
afterwards, 33 large boats, filled with troops, came off 
to the larger Indian or Garden-Island, under cover of 
the fire of his gun-boats'. 



102 

My orders were, that the troops should lie close, and 
reserve their fire, until the enemy had approached so 
near that every shot might hit its object. It is, how- 
ever, impossible to execute such orders with raw troops, 
unaccustomed to subordination. My orders were, in 
this case, disobeyed ; the whole line fired, and not with- 
out effect ; but, in the moment while I was contem- 
plating this, to my utter astonishment, they rose from 
their cover and fled. Col. Mills fell gallantly, in brave, 
but in vain endeavors to stop his men. I was, person- 
ally, more fortunate : — gathering together about 100 
militia, under the immediate command|of Capt. M'Nitt, 
of that corps, we threw ourselves on the rear of the ene- 
my's left flank, and, I trust, did some execution ; — it 
was during this last movement that the regulars, under 
the command of Col. Backus, first engaged the enemy; 
nor was it long before they defeated him. Hurrying 
to this point of action, I found the battle still raging, 
but with obvious advantage on our side. The result of 
the action, so glorious for the officers and soldiers of 
the regular army, has already been communicated, in 
my letter of the 29th. Had not Gen. Prevost retreat- 
ed, most rapidly, under the guns of his vessels, he would 
never have returned to Kingston. 

One thing, in this business, is to be seriously regret- 
ted ; in the midst of the conflict, fire was ordered to 
be set to the navy barracks, and stores. This was 
owing to the infamous conduct of those who brought 
information to Lieut. Chauncey, that the battle was 
lost ; and that, to prevent the stores from falling into 
the enemy's hands, they must be destroyed. . The ene- 
my's force consisted of 1000 picked men, led by Sir 
George Prevost, in person ; their fleet consisted of the 
new ship Wolf, the Koyal George, Prince Regent, 
Earl Moira, 2 armed schooners, and their gun and other 
boats. Of the officers who distinguished themselves, I 
cannot but repeat the name of Lieut. Col. Backus, who, 
praised be God ! yet lives. Captain M*Nitt's conduct 
was noble ; he well deserves to be placed in the regu- 
lar army. Major Swan, of the army, served as my 



103 

Adjutant-General, and was highly useful. Lieutenant 
Chauncey is a brave and honorable man ; to him no 
blame can attach, for what happened at Wavy-point ; 
he was deceived. Lieut Col. Tuttle was in march for 
this post ; but, with eveiy exertiou, was unable to reach 
it, in time to take part in the action ; this is felt, by the 
Colonel, and every officer of his detachment, as a mis- 
fortune. At the moment I am closing; this communi- 
cation, Commodore Chauncey has arrived with his 
squadron ; this renders my longer slay here unnecessa- 
ry ; I shall, therefore, immediately return to my home. 
I have the honor, &lc. 

J. BROWN, 

Our loss, in the above action was 154, killed, wound- 
ed and missing. The enemy's loss, according to his 
own account, in killed and wounded, was 150. 



ROYAL PROPERTY CAPTURED. 

Copy of a letter from Com. Chauncey, to the Secretary of the Navy. 
V. S. S. Madison, Sacket's Harbor, 4th June, 1813. 
SIR — I have the honor to present to you, by the 
hands of Lieut. Dudley, the British standard, taken at 
York, on the 27th of April last, accompanied by the 
mace, over which was hung a human scalp ! These ar- 
ticles were taken from the Parliament-house, by one of 
ray officers, and presented to rne. The scalp I caused 
to be presented to General Dearborn, who, I believe, 
still has it in his possession. I also send, by the same 
gentleman, one of the British flags, taken at fort 
George, on the 27th of May. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 

Hon. W. Jones, Sec. of the Navy. 



NOTE BY THE PUBLISHER. 



Abovit this time we lost the armed schooners Growl- 
er and Eagle, on Lake Champlain. 



104 
GENs. CHANDLER AND WINDER TAKEN. 

Qlopi) of a letter from Maj. General Henry Dearborn^ to the Secre- 
tary of War, dated 

Head-Quarters^ Fort George, June 6th, 1813. 

SIR — T have received an express from the head of 
the lake, this evening, with intelligence that our troops, 
commanded by Brig. Gen. Chandler, were attacked, at 
2 o'clock this morning, by the whole of the British and 
Indian forces — and by some fatality ; (though our loss 
did not exceed 30,) and the enemy completely routed, 
and driven from the field — both Generals Chandler 
and Winder, were taken prisoners : they had advan- 
ced to ascertain the situation of a company of artillery, 
when the attack commenced. General Vincent is re- 
ported to be among the killed of the enemy. Colonel 
Clark was mortally wounded, and fell into our hands^ 
with 60 prisoners of the 49th British regiment. The 
whole loss of the enemy is 250 ; they sent in a flag, 
with a request to bury their dead. Gen Lewis, accom- 
panied by Gen. Boyd, goes on to take the command of 
the advanced troops. 

I have the honor, &c. 

H. DEARBORN. 

Hon. Gen. /. Armstrong. 



HONOR TO THE BRAVE. 

Copy of a letter from Major-Gencral Henry Dearborn, to the Secreta- 
ry of War, dated 

Head-Quarters, June 8th, 1813. 
SIR — I hasten to state to you, that the whole of our 
officers and men discovered, in the action of the 27th 
ult. that readiness and ardor for action, which evinced 
a determination to do honor to themselves, and their 
country. The animating examples, set by Gen. Boyd 
and Col. Scott, deserve particular mention. I am great- 
ly indebted to Col. Porter, of the light artillery ; to 



i05 

Major Armistead, of the 3d legt. artillery ; and to Lieut. 
Totten, of the engineer corps, for their judicious and 
skillful execution, in demolishing the enemy's fort and 
batteries. The officers of the artillery, who had the 
direction of the guns, generally, are very deserving. 
I have the honor, &c. 

H. DEARBORN. 
Hon. J. Armstrong. 

Our loss, in the above action, was 150, in killed and 
wounded. The enemy's loss, in killed, wounded, and 
taken, was 893. 



FURTHER, OF CHANDLER AND WINDER. 

Copy of a Utter from Maj. Qcn. Lewis, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Niagara^ June 14, 1813. 

SIR — You will perceive, by the enclosed copy of or- 
ders, marked I. that Gen. Dearborn, from indisposition, 
has resigned his command, not only of the Niagara army, 
but of the district. I have doubts whether he will ever 
again, be fit for service. He has been repeatedly in a 
state of convalescence, but relapses on the least agitation 
of mind. 

In my last, I mentioned the unfortunate circumstances 
of the capture of our tw o Brigadiers, Chandler and Wind- 
er; the particulars are detailed in the report of Col. Burn, 
which he gives from the best information he could collect : 
Ills corps lay a considerable distance from the scene of ac- 
tive operation, as you will perceive by the enclosed dia- 
gram, which is on a scale of 100 yards to the inch. The 
light corps, spoken of, were Captains Hindman's, Biddle's, 
and Nicholas' companies, of the 2d artillery, serving as 
infantry. These three gentlemen, and Capts. Archer and 
Tow son, of the same regiment, and Leonard of the light 
artillery, are soldiers, who would honor any service; their 
gallantry, and that of their companions, was equally con- 
spicuous, on this occasion, as in the affair of the 27th ult. 
A view of Gen. Chandler's encampment will be sufficient to 

O 



106 

show, that his disaster was owing to its arrangement — its 
centre being its weakest point, and that being discovered 
by the enemy, in the evening, received the combined at- 
tack of liis whole force, and his hne was completely cut. 
The gallantry of the 5th, 25th, and part of the 23d, and 
light troops, saved the army. Of the 5th, it is said, that, 
when the day broke, not a man was missing ; and, that a 
part of the 23d, under Major Armstrong, was found sus- 
taining its left flank ; their fire was irresistible, and the ene- 
my was compelled to give way. Could he have been 
pressed the next morning, his destruction was inevitable ; 
he Avas dispersed in every direction ; and even his com- 
manding general was missing, without his hat or horse. 
I understand he was found the next morning, at a distance 
of four miles from the scene of action. 

Lieut. M'Chesney's gallantry recovered a piece of ar- 
tillery, and prevented the capture of others ; — he merits 
promotion for it. 

On the evening of the 6th of June, I received the order, 
No. 4, and joined the army at 5 in the afternoon of the 
7th. I found it at the Forty Mile Creek, 10 miles in the 
rear of the ground on which it had been attacked, encamp- 
ed on a plain, of about a mile in width, with its right flank 
on the lake, and its left on a creek, which skirts a perpen- 
dicular mountain, of a considerable heighth. — On my 
route, I received Nos. 5 and 6, enclosed. 

At 6 in the evening, the hostile fleet hove in sight, 
though its character could not be ascertained with pre- 
cision. We lay on our arms all night — at dawn of day, 
struck our tents, and descried the hostile squadron abreast 
of us, about a mile from the shore. Our boats, which 
transported the principal part of our baggage, and camp 
equipage, lay on the beach — it was a dead calm ; and, 
about 6, the enemy towed in a large schooner, which open- 
ed her fire on our boats. As soon as she stood for the 
shore, her object being evident, I ordered down Archer's 
and Towson's companies, with four pieces of artillery, to 
resist her attempts ; I, at the same time, sent Capt. Tot- 
ten, of the engineers, (a most valuable officer,) to con- 
struct a temporary furnace, for heating shot ; which was- 



107 

prepared, and in operation, in less than 30 minutes. Her 
lire was returned Avith a vivacity and efl'ect, (excelled by 
no artillery in the universe,) which soon compelled her to 
retire. 

A party of savages now made their appearance, on the 
brow of the mountain, (which, being perfectly bald, exhi- 
bited them to our view,) and commenced a fire on our 
camp. I ordered Col. Christie to dislodge them, wlio en- 
tered on the service with alacrity — but found himself an- 
ticipated by Lieut. Eldridge, the adjutant of his regiment, 
who, with a promptness and gallantry highly honorable 
to that young officer, had already gained the summit of 
the mountain, with a party of volunteers, and routed the 
barbarian allies of the defender of the Christian faith ; — 
this young man merits the notice of government. 

These little affairs cost us not a man. Sir James L. 
Yeo, being disappointed of a tragedy, next determined, in 
true dramatic style, to amuse us with a farce : — an officer, 
with a flag, was sent to me, from his ship, advising me, 
that, as I was invested with savages in my rear, a fleet in 
my front, and a powerful army on my flank ; he, and the 
officers commanding his Britannic majesty's land forces, 
thought it their duty to demand a surrender of my army. 
I answered, that the message was too ridiculous to merit 
a reply. 

No. 7 was delivered to me, at about 6, this morning. — 
Between 7 and 8 o'clock, the four waggons we had, be- 
ing loaded first with the sick, and next with ammunition, 
&;c. the residue of camp equipage and baggage was put in 
the boats, and a detachment of 200 men, of the 6th regi- 
ment, detailed to proceed in them. Orders were prepar- 
ed, to be given them, to defend the boats ; and, if assailed 
by any of the enemy's small vessels, to carry them by 
boarding ; by some irregularity, which I have not been 
able to discover, the boats put off without the detach- 
ments, induced, probably, by the stillness of the morning. 
W^ien they had progressed about three miles, a breeze 
sprung up, and an armed schooner overhauled them : — 
those who were enterprizing, kept on, and escaped ; others 
ran to the shore, and deserted their boats— we lost 12 of 



IOC 

the number, principally containing the baggage of the ofii- 
cers and men. 

At 10, 1 put our army in motion, on our return to this 
place ; the savages^ and incorporated militia, hung on our 
flanks and rear, throughout the march, and picked up a 
few stragglers. On our retiring, the British army ad- 
vanced, and now occupies the ground we left. 

The enemy's fleet is constantly hovering on our coast, 
and interrupting our supplies. The night before last, 
having been advised that they had chased into Eighteen 
Mile Creek, two vessels laden with hospital stores, &c. I 
detached, at midnight, 15 men, for their protection. The 
report of the day is, though not official, that they arrived 
too late for their purpose, and that the stores are lost. 
I have the honor, &c. 

MORGAN LEWIS. 

Hon. J. Armstrong. 



NUMBER 5-^Referred to in the REPORT of GEN. LEWIS— vt. 

Niagara, June 6, 1813. 
DEAR GENERAL — A ship having appeared this 
morning, steering towards the head of the lake, which is 
nndoubtedly one of the enemy's ships ; and, as others are 
appearing, you will please to return with the troops, to 
this place, as soon as possible. ' 

Yours, with esteem, 

H. DEARBORN. 

P. S. The object of the enemy's fleet must be, either 
to cover the retreat of their troops, or to bring on a rein- 
forcement. H. D. 

Maj. Gen. Lewis. 

In the action of the 6th of June, at Stoney Creek, there 
was 17 killed, 38 wounded, and 50 missing — making a 
total of 105, killed wounded, and missing. 



109 
UTILITY OF THE GUN-BOATS. 

Copy of a letter from Cominodore John Cassin, to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

Navi/ Yard, Gosport, Jime 21, 18l:i. 
SIR — On Saturday, at 11, P. M. Captain Tarbell mov- 
ed with the flotilla, under his comraand, consistinsj of 15 
gun-boats, in two divisions — Lieut. J. M. Gardner, 1st di- 
vision, and Lieut. Robert Henley, the 2d, manned from 
the frigate ; and 50 musqueteers, which General Taylor 
ordered from Craney Island — and proceeded down the 
river ; but adverse winds, and squalls, prevented his ap- 
proaching the enemy, until Sunday morning, at 4, P. M. 
when the flotilla commenced a heavy, galling fire on a 
frigate, at about three-fourths of a mile distance, laying 
w^ell up the roads — two other frigates lying in sight. At 
half past 4, a breeze sprung up, from E. N. E. which ena- 
bled the two frigates to get under way, one a razee, or 
very heavy ship, and the other a frigate, to come nearer 
in action. The boats, in consequence of their approach, 
hauled off*, though keeping up a well directed fire on the 
razee and other ship, which gave us several broadsides. 
The frigate, first engaged, (supposed to be the Junon,) 
was certainly very severely handled ; had the calm con- 
tinued, one half hour, that frigate must have fallen into our 
hands, or been destroyed : &he must have slipped her 
mooring, so as to drop nearer the razee, who had all her 
sails set, coming up to her, with the other frigate ; the 
action continued one hour and a half, with the three ships. 
Shortly after the action, the razee got along side of the 
ship, and had her upon a deep careen, in a liitle time, with 
a number of boats and stages around her; I am satisfied 
that much damage was done to her ; for she was silenced 
some time, until the razee opened her fire, when she com- 
menced again. Our loss is very trifling : Mr. AIliso]j, 
master's mate, on board No. 139, was killed earlv in the 
action, by an 181b. ball, which passed through him, and 
lodged in the mast. No. 154, had a shot between wind 
and water. No. 67, had her Franklin shot away ; and 
several of them had som6 of their sweeps, as well as their 



110 

stantions shot away; but two men slightly injured, by the 
splinters, from the sweeps. On the flood tide, several 
ships of the line, and frigates, came into the roads, and we 
expected an attack last night. There is now in the Roads, 
13 ships of the line and frigates, one brig, and several 
tenders, I cannot say too much for the officers and crew, 
on this occasion ; for every man appeared to go into ac- 
tion with so much cheerfulness, apparently, to do their du- 
ty, resolved to conquer. I had a better opportunity of 
discovering their actions, than any one else, being in my 
boat the whole of the action. 

I have the honor, &c. 

JOHN CASSIN. 
Hon Sec. Navy. 

Thirty prisoners, who were taken 2 days after the 
above action, and who were separately examined, state 
that the loss on board the Junon, in killed and wounded, 
was about 60 — her Captain killed ; and that the Junon 
received between 70 and 100 shots in her hull. 



THE CHESAPEAKE TAKEN. 

Copy of a letter from Lieut. Budd, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

Halifax^ June, 15, 1813. 

SIR — The unfortunate death of Capt. James Lawrence, 
and Lieut. Augustus C. Ludlow, has rendered it my duty 
to inform you of the capture of the late U. States frigate 
Chesapeake. 

On Tuesday, June 1st, at 8, A. M. we unmoored ship, 
and at meridian got under way, from President Roads, 
with a light wind from the southward and westward, and 
proceeded on a cruise. A ship was then in sight, in the 
offing, which had the appearance of a ship of war ; and 
whicTi, from information received from pilots, we believed 
to be the British frigate Shannon. We made sail in chase, 
and cleared ship for action. At half past 4, P. M. she 
hove too, with her head to the southward and eastward — 
at 5, P. M. took in the royal and top-gallant sails ; and at 



Ill 

half past 5, hauled the courses up. About 15 minutes 
before 6, the action commenced, within pistol-shot. The 
first broadside did great execution on both sides ; damaged 
our rigging ; killed, among others, Mr. White, the sail- 
ing-master; and wounded Capt. Lawrence. In about 12 
minutes, after the commencement of the action, we fell on 
board the enemy ; and immediately after, one of our arm- 
ed chests, on the quarter-deck, was blown up, by a hand 
grenade, thrown from the enemy's ship. In a few min- 
utes, one of the Captain's aids came on the gun-deck, to 
inform me that the boarders were called. I immediately 
called the boarders away, and proceeded to the spar-deck, 
where I found that the enemy had succeeded in boarding 
us, and had gained possession of our quarter-deck. I im- 
mediately gave orders to haul on board the fore-tack, for 
the purpose of shorting the ship clear of the other, and 
then made an attempt to regain the quarter-deck, but was 
wounded, and thrown down on the girt-deck. I again 
made an effort to collect the boarders; but, in the mean- 
time, the enemy had gained complete possession of the 
ship. On my being carried down to the cock-pit, I there 
found Capt. Lawrence, and Lieut. Ludlow, mortally 
wounded ; the former had been carried below, previously 
to the ship's being boarded — the latter was wounded in 
attempting to repel the boarders. Among those who fell, 
early in the action, was Mr. Ed. J. Ballard, 4th Lieuten- 
ant, and Lieut. James Broome, of Marines. I herein en- 
close, to you, a return of the killed and wounded ; by 
which you will perceive, that every officer, upon whom 
the charge of the sliip would devolve, was either killed or 
Avounded, previously to her capture. The enemy report 
the loss of Mr. Watt, their 1 st Lieutenant, the Purser, the 
Captain's Clerk, and 23 seamen, killed; Captain Broke, 
a Midshipman, and 5G seamen wounded. 

The Shannon had, in addition to her full complement, 
an officer, and 16 men, belonging to the Belle Poule, and 
a part of the crew belonging to the Tenedos. 

I have the honor, &c. GEO. BUDD. 

Hon. W. Jones. Sec. Navy. 
In this action, w^e had 49 killed — 97 wounded — total 146, 



11:^ 
AFFAIR ON LAKE ONTARIO. 

ilopy of a letter from Lieut. Chauncey, to Commodore Chauncey. 
SackeVs Harbor, i8th June, 1813. 
SIR — According to jour orders of the 14th inst. I pro- 
reeded off Presque-Isle, in the schooner " Lady of the 
Lake." On the morning of the 16th, fell in with, and cap- 
tured the English schooner, Lady Murray, from Kingston, 
bound to York with provisions and ammunition. Enclosed 
is a list of 1 Ensign, 15 non-commissioned officers, and 
privates, found on board, with 6 men, attached to the 
vessel. 

I have the honor to be, «tc. 

WOLCOTT CHAUNCEY. 
The prize is valued at 20,000 dollars. 



COL. BOERSTLER's SURRENDER. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Henry Dearborn, to the Secretary of 

War, dated 

Head-Quarters, Fort George, June 25, 1813. 

SIR — 1 have the mortification of informing you of an 
unfortunate and unaccountable event, which occurred yes- 
terday. On the 23d. at evening, Lieut. Col. Boerstler, 
with 570 men, (Infantry, artillery, cavalry, and riflemen, 
in due proportion,) was ordered to march, by way of 
Queenstown, to a place called the Beaver-Dams, on the 
hlo-h o-round, about 8 or 9 miles from Queenstown, to at- 
tack and disperse a body of the enemy, collected there for 
the purpose of procuring provisions, and harassing those 
inhabitants who are considered friendly to the U. States. 

Their force was, from the most direct information, com- 
posed of one company of the 104th regiment, above 80 
strong; from 150 to 200 mihtia, and from 50 to CO In- 
dians. At 8 o'clock yesterday morning, when within 
about two miles of the Beaver-Dams, our detachment w^as 
attacked from an ambuscade, but soon drove the enemy 
some distance into the woods, and then retired to a clear 
field, and sent an express for a reinforcement ; saying, he 



Voiild maintain his position, until reinforced. A reinforce»i 
nient of 300 men marched immediately, under the com- 
mand of Col. Chrystie; but, on arriving at Queenstown, 
Col. Chrystie received authentic information, that Lieut. 
Col Boerstler, with his command, had surrendered to the 
enemy, and the reinforcement returned to camp. A man, 
who belonged to a small corps of mounted volunteer rifle- 
men, came in this morning, who states, that the enemy 
surrounded our detachment in the woods ; and, towards 
12 o'clock, commenced a general attack ; that our troops 
fought more than two hours, until the artillery had ex- 
pended all its ammunition, and then surrendered ; and, 
at the time of the surrender, the informant made his escape. 

Why it should have been deemed proper to remain, se- 
veral hours in a position surrounded with woods, without 
either risking a decisive action, or effecting a retreat, re- 
mains to be accounted for, as well as the project of wait- 
ing for a reinforcement, from a distance of 15 miles. No 
information has been received of the killed or wounded. 
The enemy's fleet has again arrived in our neighborhood'. 
I am, &;c. 

H. DEARBORN. 

Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. War. 



CAPTURE OF A BRITISH TENDER. 

Copy of a letter from Com. Lewis, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

Of Sandi/ Hook, July 6, 1813. 

SIR — 1 have the pleasure to inform you of the capture 
of the British sloop tender, (Eagle) which, for some time, 
had been employed by Com. Beresford, for the purpose 
of burning the coasters, &c. Her force was 2 officers, 
and 1 1 seamen, with a 32 brass howitzer. 

This service was performed, in a most gallant and offi- 
cer like manner, by sailing-master Percival, who, with vo- 
lunteers from the flotilla, which I have the honor to com- 
mand, jumped on board a fishing-smack, ran the enemy 
along side, and carried him by a coup-de-main. I am sor- 
ry to add. that, in this little affair, the enemy lost the com- 

P 



114 

manding officer, one Midshipman, mortally wounded, ancJ 
two seamen badly. I am happy to say we suffered no in- 
jury, which is to be attributed to the superior manage- 
ment of sailing-master Percival, and the coolness with 
which his men fired ; for which they all deserve well of 
their country. 

J. LEWIS, Com. U. 8. Flotilla, 
Hon. TV. JoneSy See» Navy. 



ESCAPE OF MAJOR CHAPIN. 

Copy of a letter from ]\laJor Chapin to Gen. Dearborn, dated 

Fort GeorgCy July 13, 1813. 

SIR — I have just returned from my confinement in Ca- 
nada, without parole. Our return happened in the follow- 
ing manner ; — I received orders at Burlington Heights, on 
Monday morning, to go to Kingston ; we set off accord- 
ingly, under the care of 1 6 men ; I had, with me, 28 men. 
We all went on, very quietly, till 4 o'clock in the after- 
noon ; at which time, I gave a signal to attack the guard, 
which were stationed in the following order : a sergeant, 
and one man, in the boat with my men ; a Lieutenant, and 
13 men, in the boat with me and two officers. At the 
signal, my men ran along side of the boat I was in ; Lieut. 
Showers ordered them to fall astern — I ordered them on 
board ; at which time the officer attempted to draw his 
sword : 1 seized him by the neck, and threw him on his 
back ; two of his men drew their bayonets upon me : I im- 
mediately seized both bayonets, at the same instant, and 
threw them on top of the officer — and kept all down to- 
gether ; at the same moment, my men seized the guard, 
and wrested from them their arms. We then, having 
possession of the arms, changed our course, and arrived 
here this morning, all safe. We have brought two boats 
with us. 

I have the honor, &c. 

CYRENUS CHAPIN 

Maj, Gen. Dearborn. 



115 
A PARTY OF THE ENEMY CAPTURED. 

Extract of a letter from Commodore Cassin, to the Secretary of the. 
Navy, dated 

Norfolk, Va^July 15. 1813. 

The Plantagenet, 74, has been lying off the light-house 
some time; they dug wells on shore, and every day em- 
ployed their boats in watering. Capt. Lawson, command- 
ing a company of mihtia, from Princess-Ann, went down, 
under cover of the night, and concealed themselves be- 
hind a sand-hill, near the wells . At half past 5, P. M. a 
boat, full of men, were discovered rowing for the shore ; 
at 6, they landed, and proceeded to the wells, whei-e they 
received a full fire from the militia, which compelled them 
to surrender. The enemy's force consisted of 2 Lieuts. 
16 seamen, and 8 marines. They had 3 marines killed ; 
1 Lieut, and 2 seamen wounded, and 2 marines. None 
of our men were hurt; the barge was destroyed, after 
taking her guns, and some small arms. 
I have the honor, &;c. 

.T. CASSIN, 

Hon. Sec. Nary. 



PROCEEDINGS ON LAKE ONTARIO. 

Extract of a letter from Major-General Lewis, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

SackcCs Harbor y July 20, 1813. 
Our fleet has gone out of the inner harbor, and appear- 
ances are in favor of its going to sea, in 48 hours, at far- 
thest. — A little expedition, of volunteers from the coun- 
try, to which, by the advice of Commodore Chauncey, I 
lent 40 soldiers, sailed from hence three days since, on 
board of two small row-boats, with a 6 pounder, each, to 
the head of the St. Lawrence, where they captured a fine 
gun-boat, mountmg a 24 pounder; 14 batteaux, loaded ; 
4 officers, and 61 men. Two of our schooners have gone 



lib 

out, to cohvoy tliem in ; the prisoners have been landed, 
and are coming on, under charge of a detachment of 
dragoons. 

I have the honor, &c. 

M. LEWIS. 



FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

Gop2/ of a letter from Commodore Chaunccy, to the Secretary of tht 

Navy, dated 

V. S. S. Gen. Pike, at anchor, off Niagara, Aug. 4, 1813. 
SIR — After leaving Sacket's Harbor, I stretched over 
for the enemy's shore, and from thence stood up the lake. 
The winds being Hght, I did not arrive off this port until 
the evening of the 27th ult. On the 24th, I fell in with 
the Lady of the Lake, on her return to Sacket's Harbor, 
w4th prisoners, from fort George. I transferred the pri- 
soners to the Raven, and ordered her to Sacket's Harbor; 
the Lady of the Lake, I dispatched to fort George for 
guides, for the head of the lake. Gen. Boyd having in- 
formed me, that tlie enemy had a considerable deposit of 
provisions and stores at Burlington Bay, I was determin- 
ed to attempt their destruction. On the 25th, I was join- 
ed by the Pert, and on tiie 27th, by the Lady of the i.ake, 
with guides, and Capt. Crane's company of artillery, and 
Col. Scott, who had very handsomely volunteered for the 
service. After conversing with Col. Scott on the subject, 
it was thought advisable to take on board 250 infantry — 
w^hich were embarked by 6 o'clock next morning, and the 
fleet immediately proceeded for the head of the lake ; but, 
owino; to light winds, and calms, we did not arrive to an 
anchorage before the evening of the 29th. We sent two 
parties on shore, and surprized and took some of the inha- 
bitants ; from whom we learned, that the enemy had re- 
ceived considerable reinforcements, within a day or two ; 
and that his force, in regulars, was from 600 to 800 men. 
We, however, landed the troops and marines, and some 
sailors, next morning, and reconnoitered the enemy's posi- 
tion — found him posted upon a peninsula of very high 



117 

ground, strongly entrenched, and his camp defended by 
about 8 pieces of cannon. In this situation, it was thought 
not advisable to attack him, with a force scarcely half his 
numbers, and without artillery ; we were also de^cient in 
boats, not having a sufficient number to cross the bay, with 
all the troops at the same time. T. he men were all re- 
embarked, in the course of the afternoon ; and, in the even- 
ing, we weighed, and stood for York — arrived, and an- 
chored in that harbor, at about 3, P. M. on the 31st ult. — 
run the schooners into the upper harbor ; landed the ma- 
rines and soldiers, under the command of Col. Scott, with- 
out opposition ; found several hundred barrels of ilour, 
and provisions, in the public store-house ; five pieces of 
cannon, eleven boats, and a quantity of shot, shells, and 
other stores ; all which were either destroyed or brought 
away. On the 1st instant, just after having received on 
board all that the vessels could take, I directed the bar- 
racks, and public stores, to be burnt ; we then re-embark- 
ed the men, and arrived at this place yesterday. Four 
or five hundred men left York, for the head of the lake, 
2 days before we arrived there. A few prisoners were 
taken; a part of them were paroled — the others were 
left at fort George. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

I. CHAUNCEY. 
Hon. Sec. Navy. 



DEFENCE OF LOWER SANDUSKY. 

Copy of a letter from Major Croghan, to Gen. Harrison, dated 

Lower Sandusky, August 5, 1813. 
DEAR SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that the 
combined force of the enemy, amounting to, at least, 500 
regulars, and as many Indians, under the immediate com- 
mand of Gen. Proctor, made its appearance before this 
place, early on Sunday evening last ; and, so soon as the 
General had made such disposition of his troops, as would 
cut off my retreat, (should I be disposed to make one,) 
he sent Col. Elliot, accompanied by Major Chambers, 



118 

with a flag, to demand the surrender of tlie fort, as he was 
anxious to spare the effusion of blood ; which he should 
probably not have in his power to do, should he be re- 
duced to. the necessity of taking the place by storm. My 
answer to the summons was, that I was determined to de- 
fend the place to the last extremity ; and that no force, 
however large, should induce me to surrender it. So soon 
as the flag had returned, a brisk fire was opened upon us, 
from the gun-boats, in the river, and from a five and a half 
inch howitzer, on shore, which was kept up with little 
intermission, throughout the night. At an early hour, 
the next morning, three sixes, (which had been placed, 
during the night, within 250 yards of the pickets,) began 
to play upon us — but with little effect. About 4 o'clock, 
P. M. discovering that the fire, from all his guns, was con- 
centrated against the N. W. angle of the Ibrt, I became 
confident that his object was to make a breach, and at- 
tempt to storm the works at that point: I, therefore, or- 
dered out as many men, as could be employed, for the 
purpose of strengthening that part — which was so effec- 
tually secured, by means of bags of flour, sand, &;c. that 
the picketing suffered little or no injury; notwithstanding 
which, the enemy, about 500^ having formed in close co- 
lumn, advanced to assault our works, at the expected 
point ; at the same time makiag two feints on the front of 
Captain Hunter's lines. The column, which advanced 
ajrainst the north-western angfle, consisting of about 350 
men, was so completely enveloped m smoke, as not to be 
discovered, until it had approached within 18 or 20 paces 
of the fines ; but, the men being all at their posts, and rea- 
dy to receive it, commenced so heavy and galling a fire, 
as to throw the column a little into confusion ; being 
quickly ralfied, it advanced to the outworks, and began to 
leap into the ditch ; just at that moment, a fire of grape 
was opened, from our 6 pounder, (which had been pre- 
viously arranged, so as to rake in that direction,) which, 
together with the musquetry, threw them into such con- 
fusion, that they were compelled to retire, precipitately, to 
the woods. — During the assault, which lasted about half 
an hour, an incessant fire was kept up by the enemy's ar- 



119 

tlllerj, (which consisted of five sixes, and a howitzer,) but 
without effect. My whole loss, during the seige, was one 
killed, and seven slightly wounded. The loss of the ene- 
my, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, must exceed 150. 
One Lieut. Colonel, a Lieutenant, and 50 rank and file, 
were found in and about the ditch, dead or wounded ; 
those of the remainder, who were not able to escape, were 
taken off, during the night, by the Indians. Seventy stand 
of arms, and several brace of pistols, have been collected 
near the works. About 3, in the morning, the enemy 
sailed down the river, leaving behind them a boat, con- 
taining clothing, and considerable military stores. 

Too much praise cannot be bestowed on the ofiicersy 
non-commissioned officers, and privates, under my com- 
mand, for their gallantry, and good conduct, during 
the seige. 

Yours, with respect, 

G. CROGHAN, Maj. 17th U. S. Inf. comg. 

Governor Huntington, in a letter to the P. Master Gene- 
ral, states the force of Maj. Croghan to have been but 
160 men ! 



INDIAN DECLARATION OF WAR. 

[translation.] July, 181S, 

DECLARATION OF WAR, BY THE SIX NATIONS, 
WE, the Chiefs and Councillors of the Six Nations ot 
Indians, residing in the state of New-York, do hereby pro- 
claim, to all the War-Chiefs, and Warriors, of the Six 
Nations, that war is declared, on our part, against the pro- 
vinces of Upper and Lower Canada. Therefore, we do 
hereby command, and advise all the War-Chiefs to call 
forth, immediately, the Warriors under them, and put them 
in motion, to protect their rights and liberties, which our 
brethren, the Americans, are now defending. 
(Sis^ned) 

KF THE GR.^.]VI> COUJ^CILLORS, 



120 
CAPTURE OF THE DOMINICO. 

Extract of a letter from Capt. John H. Dent, commanding naval officer' 
at Charleston, S. C. to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

August 21, 1813. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that the privateer 
schooner Decatur, of this port, arrived here yesterday, 
with H. B. M. schooner Doniinico, her prize. She was 
captured on the 5th instant, after a most gallant action of 
one hour, and carried by boarding, having all her officers 
killed, except one Midshipman. 

The Dominico mounts 15 guns ; one a 32 pounder, on 
a pivot, and had a complement of 83 men, at the com- 
mencement of the action, sixty of whom were killed or 
wounded. She was one of the best equipped and manned 
vessels, of her class, I have ever seen. The Decatur 
mounts 7 guns, and had a complement of 103 men, at the 
commencement of the action, 19 of whom were killed or 
wounded. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

JOHN H. DENT. 



CAPTURE OF THE BOXER. 

Copy of a letter from Lieut. Ed. R. M'Call, of the U. S, Brig Enterprise, 
to Capt. Isaac Htdl, dated 

U. S. Brig Enterprhe, Portland lih f>ept. 1813. 
SIR — In consequence of the unfortunate death of Lieut. 
Commandant William Burrows, late commander of this 
vessel, it devolves on me to acquaint you with the result 
of our cruise. — On the morning of the 4th, weighed an- 
chor, and swept out, and continued our course to the east- 
ward. Having received information, of several privateers 
being off Manhagan, we stood for that place ; and, on the 
following morning, in the bay near Penguin-point, disco- 
vered a brig getting under way, which appeared to be a 
vessel of war, and to which we immediately gave chase : 
she fired several guns, and stood for us, having four en- 
signs hoisted. After reconnoitering, and discovering her 



121 

force, and the nation to which siie belonged, we hauled 
upon a wind, to stand out of tlie bay ; and, at 3 o'c'.ock, 
shortened sail, tacked, and ru s down, with an intenti m 
to bring her to close action. At 20 minutes past 3, P. 
IV'I. when within half pistol shot, the firing com'uenced 
from both ; and, after bein:; warmly kept up, and with 
some manoeuvering, the enemy hailed, and said they 
had surrendered, about 4, P. M. — their colors being 
nailed to the masts, could not be hauled d.-wn. She 
proved to be his B. M. brig Boxer, of 14 guns, Samuel 
BIythe, Esq. commander, who fell in the early part of 
the engagement, having received a cannon shot through 
the body ; and, I am sorry to add, that Lieut. Burrows, 
who had gallantly led us to action, fell, also, about 
the same time, by a musquet ball, wliich terminated his 
existence in eight hours. 

The Enterprize suflfered much, in spars and rigging; 
and the Boxer both in spars, rigging, and hull, having 
many shots between wind and water. 

It would be doing injustice to the merit of Mr. Til- 
linghast, 2d Lieutenant, were I not to mention the able 
assistance I received from him, during the remainder of 
the engagement, by his strict attention to his own di- 
vision, and other departments ; and the officers and 
crew, generally : I am happy to add, their cool and de- 
termined conduct have my warmest approbation and 
applause. As no muster-roll, that can be fully relied 
on, has come into my possession, I cannot exactly state 
the number killed, on board the Boxer ; but, from in- 
formation received from the officers of that vessel, it 
appears that there were between 20 and 25 killed, and 
14 wounded. On board the Enterprize, there was I 
killed, and 13 wounded, among whon) was Lieut. Bur- 
rows, (since dead,) and Midshipman Warters, mortally. 
— Sixty-six prisoners. 

I have the honor, &c. 

EDWARD R. M'CALL. Sen, Officer. 
Isaac Hull, Esq. Comg. Naval Officer, 
on the Ea-tern station. 



122 
PERRY *S VICTORY. 

Copy of a letter from Com. Perry ^ to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

U. S. Brig Niagara, off the Western Sister, 

Head of Lake Erie, September 10th, 1813, 4, P. M. 

SIR— It has pleased the ALMIGHTY to give to 
the ARMS OF THE U. States a signal victory over their 
enemies, on this lake. 

The British Squadron, consisting of TWO SHIPS, 
TWO BRIGS, ONE SLOOP, and ONE SCHOON- 
ER, have, this moment, surrendered to the force under 
my command after a sharp conflict. 
1 iiave the honor, »fec. 

O. H. PERRY. 

Hon. W. Jones, Sec. of the Navy. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT. 

Copy of a letter from Commodore Perry, to the Secretary of the Navy. 

U. S. Schr. Arid, Put-in-Bay, \3lh Sept. 1813. 
SIR — In my last, I informed you that we had cap- 
tured the enemy's fleet, on this lake. I have now the 
honor to give you the most important particulars of 
the action: — On the morning of the 10th instant, at 
sun-rise, they were discovered in Put-in-Bay, when I 
lay at anchor, with the squadron under my command. 
W^e got under weigh, the wind light at S. W. and stood 
for them ; — at 10, A. M. the wind hauled to S. E. and 
brought us to windward ; formed the line, and bore up. 
At 15 minutes before 12, the enemy commenced firing; 
at 5 minutes before 12, the action commenced on our 
part. Finding their fire very destructive, owing to 
their long guns, and its being mostly directed at the 
Lawrence, I made sail, and directed the other vessels 
to follow, for the purpose of closing with the enemy — 
every brace and bow line being soon shot away, she 
became unmanageable, notwithstanding the great exer- 
tions of the sailing-master. In this situation, she sus- 
tained the action upwards of two hours, within canister 



123 

distance, until every gun was rendered useless, and the 
greater part of the crew either killed or wounded. 
Finding she could no longer annoy the enemy, I left 
her in charge of Lieut. \ arnell, who, [ was convinced, 
by the bravery already displayed by him, would do 
what would comport with the honor of the flag. x\t 
half past 2, the wind springing up, Captain Elliot was 
enabled to bring his vessel, the Niagara, gallantly into 
close action ; 1 immediately went on board of her, 
when he anticipated my wish, by volunteering to bring 
the schooners, which had been kept astern by the light- 
ness of the wind, into close action. 

It was with unspeakable pain that I saw, soon after 
I got on board of the ^mgCLr?i,iheJlag of Ihe Lawrence 
come down ; although I was perfectly sensible that she 
had been defended to the last, and that to have conti- 
nued to make a show of resistance, would have been a 
wanton sacrifice of the remains of her brave crew. But 
the enemy was not able to take possession of her, and 
circumstances soon permiUed HER FLAG AGAIN TO 
BE HOISTED. At 45 minutes past 2, the signal was 
made for " close action ;'' the Niagara being very lit- 
tle injured, I determined to pass through the enemy's 
line — bore up, and passed ahead of their two ships, and 
a brig, giving a raking lire to them, from the starboard 
guns, and to a large schooner, and sloop, from the lar- 
board side, at half pistol-shot distance. The smaller 
vessels, at this time, having got within grape and canis- 
ter distance, under the direction of Capt. Elliot, and 
keeping up a well directed fire, the two ships, a brig, 
and a schooner surrendered ; a schooner and sloop 
making a vain attempt to escape. 

Those officers and men, who were immediately un- 
der my observation, evinced the greatest gallantry ; 
and, I have no doubt but all others conducted them- 
selves as became American officers and seamen. Lieut. 
Yarnell, 1st of the Lawrence, although several times 
wounded, refused to quit the deck. Midshipman For- 
est, (doing duty as Lieutenant,) and sailing-master 
Taylor^ were of great assistance to me. I have great 



124 

pain, in staling to you the death of Lieut. Brook, of the 
marines, and Midshipman Laub, both of the Lawrence, 
and Midshipman John Clark, of the Scorpion ; they 
were valuable and promising officers. Mr. Hamilton, 
Purser, who volunteeied his services on deck, was se- 
verely wounded, late in the action. Midshipman Clax- 
ton, and Swaitwout, of the Lawrence, were severely 
wounded. On board of the Niagara, Lieutenants Smith 
and Edwards, and Midshipman Webster, (doing duty as 
sailing-master,) behaved in a very handsome manner. 
Captain Brevoort, of the army, who acted as a volun- 
teer, in the capacity of a marine officer, on board that 
vessel, is an excellent and brave officer ; and, with his 
musquetry, did great execution. Lieut. Turner, com- 
manding the Caledonia, brought that vessel into action 
in the iriost able manner, and is an officer, in all situa- 
tions, that may be relied on. 

The Aiiel, Lieut. Packet, and Scorpion, sailing-mas- 
ter Champli[i, were enabled to get early into action, 
and wtre of great service. Caplain Elliot speaks in 
the highest terms of Mr. Magrath, Purser, who had 
been dispatched in a boat, on service, previous, to my 
getting on board tlie Niagara ; and, being a seaman, 
since the action has rendered essential service in taking 
charge of one of the prizes. 

Of Captain Elliot, already so well known to the go- 
vernment, it would be almost superfluous to speak : — 
in this action, he evinced his characteristic bravery and 
judgment; and, since the close of the action, has given 
me the most able and essential assistance. 

I have the honor to enclose you a return of the kill- 
ed and wounded, together with a statement of the rela- 
tive force of the squadrons. The Captain and 1st Lieu- 
tenant of the Queen Charlotte, and 1st Lieut, of the De- 
troit, were killed. Captain Baiclay, senior officer, and 
the commander of the Lady Prevost, severely wound- 
ed. The commander of the Hunter and Chippewa, 
slightly wounded. Their loss, in killed and wounded, 
I have not been able to ascertain; it must, however, 
have been very great. 



125 

I have caused the prisoners, taken on the 10th inst. 
to be landed at Sandusky ; and have requested Gen. 
Harrison to have them marched to Chillicothe, and 
there wait, until your pleasure shall be known respect- 
ing them. 

The Lawrence has been so entirely cut up, it is ab- 
solutely necessary she should go into a safe harbor; I 
have, therefore, directed Lieut. Yarnell to proceed to 
Erie, in her, with the wounded of the fleet ; and dis- 
mantle, and get her over the bar, as soon as possible. 

The two ships, in a heavy sea, this day, at anchor, 
lost their masts, being much injured in the action. I 
shall haul them into the inner bay, at this place, and 
moor them for the present. The Detroit is a remarka- 
bly fine ship ; sails well, and is very strongly built ; — 
the Queen Charlotte is a much superior vessel to what 
has been represented ; — the Lady Prevost is a large, 
fine schooner. 

I also beg your instructions, respecting the wounded ; 
I am satisfied, sir, that whatever steps I might take, go- 
verned by humanity, would meet your approbation ; — 
under this impression, I have taken upon myself to pro- 
mise Capt. Barclay, who is very dangerously wounded, 
that he shall be landed as near Lake Ontario as possi- 
ble ; and, 1 had no doubt, you would allow me to pa- 
role him ; he is under the impression, that nothing but 
leaving this part of the country will save his life. There 
is, also, a number of Canadians among the prisoners — 
many who have families. 

I have the honor, &c. 

O. H. PEHRF. 
Hon. W. Jones, Sec. Navy. 

The whole force of the British squadron was 63 guns 
and 2 swivels ; — that of the American squadron, 54 
guns, and 2 swivels, ; one of the guns burst early in the 
action. 

In the above action, we had 27 killed, and 96 wound- 
ed — total, killed and wounded, 123. On the morning 
of the action, there were 116 unfit ^or duty. 



126 
SIR JAMES YEO's MODE OP FIGHTING. 

Extract of a letter from Com. Isaac Chauncey, to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

Onboard the U, S. S. Gen. Pike, off Duck Island, Sept. 13, 1813. 

SIR— On the 7ih, at day-lio;ht, the enemy's fleet was 
discovered close in with the Niagara river, wind from 
the southward — made the signal, weighed with the fleet, 
(prepared for action) and stood out of the river, after 
him. He immediately made all sail to the northward ; 
we made sail in chase, with our heavy schooners in 
tow— and have continued the chase, all round the lake, 
night and day, until yesterday morning, when he suc- 
ceeded in getting into Amherst-Bay, which is so little 
known to our pilots, and said to be so full of shoals, 
that they are not willing to take me in there. I shall, 
however, (unless driven from my station by a gale of 
wind,) endeavor to watch him so close, as to prevent 
his getting out upon the lake. During our long chase, 
we frequently got within from one to two miles of the 
enemy ; but our heavy-sailing schooners prevented our 
closing in with him, until the 11th, off Genesee river; 
we carried a breeze with us, while he lay becalmed, to 
within about three-fourths of a mile of him, when he 
took the breeze, and we had a running-fight of three 
and a half hours ; but, by his superior sailing, he es- 
caped me, and run into Atnherst-Bay, yesterday morn- 
ing. In the course of our chase, on the 11th, I got se- 
veral broadsides, from this ship, upon the enemy, which 
must have done him considerable injury, as many of 
the shot were seen (o strike him, and people were ob- 
served, over the side, plugging shot-holes ; a few shot 
struck our hull, and a little rigging was cut, but nothing 
of importance — not a man was hurt. 

I was much disappointed, that Sir James refused to 
fight me, as he was so much superior in point of force, 
both in guns and men — having upwards of 20 guns more 
than we have, and throws a greater weight of shot. 

This ship, the Madison, and Sylph, have each a schr. 
constantly in tow ; yet the others cannot sail as fast as 



127 

the enemy's squadron, which gives him decidedly the 
advantage, and puts it in his power to engage me when 
and how he chooses. 

I have the honor, &c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEV. 
Hon. TV. Jones., Sec. Navy. 



INDIAN WAR IN THE SOUTH. 

About this time the Indian war commenced in the 
South. A portion of the Creeks, headed by British or 
Spanish officers, attacked Fort St. Stephens, which was 
a picketed fort, containing 3 or 400 men, women, and 
children, and butchered and burnt them all except 16, 
who made their escape. 



BRIG ARGUS. 

The British official account of the capture of the U, 
S. brig Argus, on the 14th of August, has been receiv- 
ed. In that account, the Pelican, which took the Ar- 
gus, states the force of the two vessels, as follows, viz : 
— Argus, eighteen 241b. carronades, and two 12's — 127 
men. Pelican, sixteen 32 pounders, and three 6's — 1 1 6 
men. — The action lasted 43 minutes. The American 
loss was 30, killed and wounded ; that of the British 6. 



MALDEN TAKEN. 

Copy of a letter from Major General William H. Harrison, to the 
War Department, daied 

H. Quarters, Amhtrsihurg, Sept. 23, 1813. 
SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that I landed 
the army, under my command, about three miles below 
this place, at 3 o'clock this evening, without opposi- 
tion, and took possession of the town an hour after. — 
General Proctor has retreated to Sandwich, wilh hi? 



128 

regular troops and Indians, having previously burned 
the fort, navy-yard, barracks, and public stores; the 
two latter were very extensive, covering several acres 
of ground. I will pursue the enemy to-morrow, al- 
though there is no probability of overtaking him, as he 
has upwards of 1000 horses, and we have not one in the 
army ; I shall think myself fortunate to be able to col- 
lect a sufficiency to mount the general officers. — It is 
supposed, here, that General Proctor intends to estab- 
lish himself upon the river French, 40 miles from 
Maiden. 

I have the honor, &;c. 

WM. H. HARRISON. 



DEFEAT OF GEN. PROCTOR. 

Head-Quarters, near Moravian-Town, on the river Thames, 
80 miles from Detroit, 5th October, 1813. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that, by the 
blessing of Providence, the army under my command 
has obtained a complete victory over the combined In- 
dian and British forces, under the command of General 
Proctor. I believe that nearly the whole of the ene- 
my's regulars are taken or killed ; amongst the former 
are all the superior officers, except Gen. Proctor ; my 
mounted men are now in pursuit of him. 

Our loss is very trifling ; the brave Col. R. M. John- 
son is the only otficer that I have heard of, that i? 
wounded — he badly, but I hope not dangerously. 
I have the honor, &c. 

W. H. HARRISON, 
Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. of War. 



TREATY WITH THE INDIANS. 

Extract of a letter from Gen. M^ Arthur, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Detroit, October 6th, 1813. 
On our arrival at Sandwich, my brigade was ordered 
acroBS the river to disperse some Indians., who were 



129 

pillaginfif the town, and to take possession of this place. 
Information was received, that several thousand In- 
dians had retired a small distance into the woods, with 
instructions to attack Gen. Harrison's army, on its pas- 
sage, for the purpose of retarding its progress; conse- 
Cjuently, rny brigade was left to ganison this place. 

Since General Harrison's departure, ^ve nations of 
Indians, viz. — Ottowas, Chippewas, Pottewatamies, Mi- 
amies, and Kickapoos, who were but a few miles back, 
have come in for peace; and I have agreed that hosti- 
lities should cease, for the present, on the following 
conditions : — they have agreed to take hold of the same 
tomahawk with us, and to strike all who are, or may be 
enemies to the U. States, whether British or Indians; 
they are to bring in a number of their women and chil- 
dren, and leave them as hostages, whilst they accom- 
pany us to war. Some of them have already brought 
in tlieir women, and are drawing rations. 

I have just received a note, from General Harrison, 
advising, that he had last evening overtaken Gen. Proc- 
tor's force, and had gained a complete victory ; all the 
principal officers were in his possesion, except Gen. 
Proctor ; which, no doubt, ends the v/ar in this c^uarter. 
I have the honor, <fcc. 

DUNCAN M'ARTHUR. 

Hon. Sec. of War. 



THE JULIA AND GROWLER RE-CAPTLTRED. 

^'opi/ of a letter from Commodore Chauncey, to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

U. S. S. Gen. Pike, Sacket's Harbor, Oct. Gth, 1813. 
SIR — I have the pleasure to inform you, that I ar- 
rived here this morning with five of the enemy's ves- 
sels, which I fell in with, and captured last evening, off 
the Ducks ; these were part of a fleet of seven sail, 
which left York, on Sunday, with 234 troops on board, 
bound to Kingston. Of this fleet, five were captured, 
one burnt, and one escaped. The prisoners, amount- 

R 



130 

ing to nearly 300, besides having upwards of 300 of our 
troops on board, fioin Niagara, induced me to run in- 
to port, for the purpose of landing both. 

1 have an additional pleasure in informing you, that 
amongst the captured vessels, are the late U S. schrs. 
Julia and Growler ; the others are gun-vessels. 
»I have the honor, &c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
Hon. W. Jo ncs. Sec. Navy. 



FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

topy of a letter* from Commodore Chmmccy, to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

U. S. S. Gcii. Pike, off Niagara, Oct 1, 1813. 
SIR — On the 26th ult. it was reported to me, that the 
enemy's fleet was in York. I immediately dispatched 
the Lady of the Lake to look into York, and ascertain 
the fact; she returned in the evening with the informa- 
tion, that the enemy was in York bay. I immediately 
prepared to weigh ; but, owing to a strong wind from 
N. N. E. Avas not able to get out of the river before the 
evening of the 27th ; and, owing to the extreme dark- 
ness of the night, apart of the squadron got separated, 
and did not join before next morning, at 8, A. M. On 
the 28lh, the Gen. Pike, Madison, and Sylph, each took 
a schooner in tow, and made all sail for York; soon 
after, discovered the enemy's fleet in York bay, shaped 
our course for him, and prepared for action ; he per- 
ceived our intention of engaging him in his position — 
tacked, and stood out of the bay, wind at east. I form- 
ed the line, and run down for his centre : when we had 
approached within about 3 miles, he made all sail to 
the southward ; I woie in succession, and stood on the 
same tack with him, edging down gradually in order to 
close. At 10 minutes, past meridian, the enemy, find- 
ing we were closing fast with him, and that he must 

=^ This letter bears the Albauy post-mark of the 13th iust. having, from 
some unknown cansc, been mislaid in some Post-office. 



131 

either risk an action, or sulFer his two rear vessels to 
be cut ofr, he tacked in succession, beginning at the 
van, iioisted his colours, and commenced a well direct- 
ed fire at this ship, for the purpose of covering his rear, 
and attacking our rear as he passed to leeward. Per- 
ceiving his intention, I determined to disa|)point liim : 
and, therefore, as soon as the Wolf, (the leading ship,) 
passed the centre of his line, and a beam of us, I bore 
up in succession, (preserving our line for the enemy's 
centre;) this manoeuvre not only covered our rear, but 
hove him in confusion; he immediately ])ore away. 
We had, however, closed so near as to brins: our ""uns to 
bear with effect ; and, in 20 minutes, the main and mizen 
top-mast, and main yard of the Wolf was shot away ; he 
immediately put before the wind — was enabled to outsail 
mostof our squadron ; as it brought all the sail upon one 
mast, he did not fee] tlie loss of his main and mizen top- 
mast. I continued the chase until near 3 o'clock, during 
which time I was enabled, in this ship, (with the Asp in 
tow,) to keep in point-blank shot of the enemy, and sus- 
tained the whole of his fire during the chase. Capt Crane, 
in the Madison, and Lieut. Brow-n, in the Oneida, used 
every exertion to close with the enemy; but the Madison 
having a heavy schooner in tow, and the Oneida sailing 
very dull before the wind, prevented those officers from 
closing near enough to do any execution with their carron- 
ades. The Gov. Tompkins kept In her station, until iier 
foremast was so badly wounded, as to oblige her to short- 
en sail. Lieutenant Finch, of the Madison, who com- 
manded her for this cruise, (owing to the Indisposition of 
Lieutenant Pettigrew,) behaved with great gallantrv, and 
is an officer of much promise. Capt. Wolsey, of the Sylph, 
was kept astern by the Ontario, which he had in tow, but 
did considerable execution with his hea^y guns. At 15 
minutes before 3, P. M. I very reluctantly relinquished 
the pursuit of a beaten enemy; the reasons which led to 
this determination, were such as, I flatter myself, you will 
approve — they were these : 

At the time I gave up the chase, this ship was making 
so much water, that it required all our pumps to keep her 



132 

free, owlno* to our receivincf several shot so much below 
the water's edge, that we could not plug the holes from 
the outside. The Governor Tompkins with her foremast 
gone, and the squadron within about 6 miles of the head 
of the lake, blowing a gale of wind from the east, and in- 
creasing;, with a heavy sea on, and every appearance of 
the equinox. 

I considered, that if I chased the enemy to his anchor- 
age, at the head of the lake, I should be obliged to anchor 
also; and, although we might succeed in driving him on 
shore, the probability was, that Ave should go on shore 
also : he amongst his fi icnds — we amono-st our enemies ; 
and, after the gale abated, if he could succeed m gettmg 
off one or two vessels out of the two fleets, it would give 
him as completely the command of the lake, as if he had 
20 vessels ; moreover, he was covered, at his anchorage, 
by a part of his army, and several small batteries thrown 
up for the purpose; therefore, if we could have rode out 
the gale, we should have been cut up by their shot fiom 
the shore. Under all these circumstances, and taking in- 
to view the consequences resulting from the loss of our 
superiority on the lake, at this time, I, without hesitation, 
relinquished the opportunity, then presenting itself, of ac- 
quiring- individual reputation, at the expence of my coun- 
try. The loss sustained by this ship was considerable, 
owing to her being so long exposed to the fire of the 
whole of the enemy's fleet ; but our most serious loss was 
occasioned bv the burstino- of one of our jruns, which kill- 
ed and wounded 22 men, and tore up the top-gallant fore- 
castle, which rendered the gun, upon that deck, useless. 
We had 4 other guns cracked in the muzzle, which ren- 
dered their use extremely doubtful. Our main top- 
gallant mast was shot away in the early part of the action ; 
and the bowsprit, fore and main-mast wounded ; rigging 
and sails much cut up, and a number of shot in our hull — 
several of which were between wind and water ; and 27 
men killed and wounded, including those by the bursting 
of the gun. The Madison received a few shot, but no 
person hurt on board ; the Governor Tompkins lost her 
foremast, and the Oneida her main top-mast badly wound- 



133 

ed ; we have, however, repaired all our damages, and are 
ready to meet the enemy. 

During our chase, one, if not two of the enemy's ves- 
sels were completely in our power — if I could have been 
satisfied with so partial a victory; but I was so sure of 
the whole, that I passed them unnoticed ; by which means 
they finally escaped. 

I have the honor to be, &;c. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 

Hon. W. Jones, Sec. Navy. 



FU IITHER, OF PROCTOR'S DEFEAT. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. General Harrison, to the Secretary of 
JVar, dated 

Head-Qnarters, Detroit^ Oct. 9thj 1813. 

SIR — In my letter from Sandwich, of the 30th ult. I 
did myself the honor to inform you, that I was preparing 
to pursue the enemy on the folio winoj day : from various 
causes, however, I was unable to put the troops in motion 
until the morning of the 2d instant ; and then to take 
with me about 140 of the regular troops, Johnson's 
mounted regiment, and such of Gov. Shelby's volunteers 
as were fit for a rapid march ; the whole amounting to 
about 3,500 men. To Gen. M'Arthur, (with about 700 
effectives,) the protecting this place, and the sick, was 
committed. Gen. Cass's brigade, and the corps of Lieut. 
Col. Ball, were left at Sandwich, with orders to follow 
me as soon as the men received their knapsacks and 
blankets, which had been left on an island, in lake Erie. 

The unavoidable delay at Sandwich was attended with 
no disadvantage to us ; General Proctor had posted him- 
self at Dalson's, on the right bank of the Thames, (or 
Trench) 56 miles from this place, where, I was informed, 
he intended to fortify, and wait to receive me. He must 



134 

have believed, however, that I had no disposition to fol- 
low hitn, or that he had secured my continuance here by 
the reports that were circulated, that the Indians would 
attack and destroy this place, upon the advance of" the 
army — as he neglected to commence the breaking up the 
bridges, until the night of the 2d instant ; — on that night, 
our army reached the rivei', which is 25 miles from Sand- 
wich, and is one of tour streams, crossing our route, over 
all of which are bridges; and, being deep and muddy, are 
not fordablc for a considerable distance into the country : 
the bridge, here, was found entire ; and, in the morning, 
I proceeded, with Johnson's regiment, to save, if possible, 
the others. At the second bridge, over a branch of the 
river Thames, we were fortunate enough to capture a 
Lieutenant of Dragoons, and 1 1 privates, who liad been 
sent by General Proctor to destroy them. From the pri- 
soners, I learned that the third bridge was broken up, 
and that the enemy had no certain information of our ad- 
vance ; — the bridge, having been impeiiectly destroyed, 
was soon repaired, and the army encamped at Drake's 
farm, 4 miles below Dalson's. — The rivei- Thames, along 
the banks of which our route lay, is a fme deep stream, 
navigable for vessels of considerable burthen; after the 
passage of the bar, at its mouth, there is six and a half 
teet water. 

The baggage of the army was brought from Detroit 
in boats, protected by three gun-boats which Commodore 
Perry had furnished ibr the purpose, as well as to cover 
the passage of the army over the Thames itself, or the 
mouths of its tributary streams ; the banks being low, and 
the country generally open, (priaries,) as high as Dal- 
son's, these vessels were well calculated for that purpose. 
Above Dalson's, however, the character of the river and 
adjacent country is considerably changed ; the former, 
though still deep, is very narrow, and its banks high and 
woody. 

The Commodore and myself, therefore, agreed upon the 
propriety of leaving the boats under a guard of 150 in- 
fantry ; and I determined to trust to fortune, and the bra- 
very of my troops, to effect the passage of the river. 



135 

Below a place called Chatham, and 4 miles above Dalson'S;, 
is the third unfordable branch of the Thames ; the bridge 
over its mouth had been taken up by the Indians, as well 
as that at M'Gregor's mills, one mile above. Several hun- 
dred of the Indians remained to dispute our passage, and 
upon the arrival of the advanced guard, commenced a 
heavy tire from the opposite bank of the creek, as well as 
that of the river. Believing that the whole force of the 
enemy was there, I halted the army, and formed in order 
of battle ; and brought up our two six pounders, to cover 
the party that were ordered to repair the bridge ; a feAV 
shot, from those pieces, soon drove off the Indians, and 
enabled us, in 2 hours, to repair the bridge, and cross the 
troops. Col. Johnson's mounted regiment, being upon 
the right of the army, had seized the remains of the bridge 
at the mills, under a heavy fire from the Indians. Our 
loss, upon this occasion, was 2 killed, and 3 or 4 wounded 
— that of the enemy was ascertained to be considerably 
greater. A house, near the bridge, containing a consider- 
able number of musquets, had been set on fire ; but it was 
extinguished by our troops, and the arms saved. At the 
first farm, above the bridge, we found one of the enemy's 
vessels on fire, loaded with arms and ordnance stores; and 
learned that they were a few miles ahead of us, still on 
the right bank of the river, with a great body of Indians. 
At Bowles' farm, 4 miles from the bridge, avc halted for 
the night ; found two other vessels, and a large distillery, 
filled with ordnance and other valuable stores, to an im- 
mense amount, in flames ; it was impossible to put out the 
fire — two 24 prs. with their carriages, were taken, with 
a large quantity of ball and shell, of various sizes. 

The army was put in motion, early on the morning of 
the 5th. I pushed on, in advance, with the mounted re- 
giment, and requested Gov. Shelby to follow, as expedi- 
tiously as possible, with the infantry ; the Governor's zeal, 
and that of his men, enabled them to keep up with the ca- 
valry; and, by 9 o'clock, we were at Arnold's mills, hav- 
ing taken, in the course of the morning, two gun boats, and 
several batteaux, loaded with provisions and ammunition. 
A rapid, at the river at Arnold's mills, affords the only 



136 

fording to be met with, for a very considerable distance ; 
but, upon examination, it was found too deep for the in- 
fantry. Having, fortunately, taken two or three boats, 
and some Indian canoes, on the spot, and obliging the 
horsemen to take a footman behind each, the whole were 
safely crossed by 1 2 o'clock. Eight miles from the cross- 
ing, we passed a farm where a part of the British troops 
had encamped the night before, under the command of 
Col. Warburton ; the detachment, under General Proctor, 
had arrived, the day before, at the Moravian towns, four 
miles higher up. Being now certainly near the enemy, 
I directed the advance of Johnson's regiment to accele- 
rate their march, for the purpose of procuring intelli- 
gence ; the officer commanding it, in a short time, sent to 
inform me, that his progress was stopped by the enemy, 
who were formed across our line of march : one of the 
enemy's waggoners also being taken prisoner, from the 
information received from him, and my own observation, 
assisted by some of my officers, I soon ascertained enough 
of their disposition, and order of battle, to determine that, 
which it was proper for me to adopt. 

I have the honor, herewith, to enclose you my general 
order, of the 27th ult. prescribing the order of march, and 
of battle, when the whole army should act together; but, 
as the number and description of the troops had been es- 
sentially chano;ed, since the issuing the order, it became 
necessary to make a corresponding alteration in their dis- 
position. 

From the place where our army was last halted, to the 
Moravian towns, a distance of about three and a half 
miles, the road passes through a beach forest, without any 
clearing ; and, for the first two miles, near to the bank of 
the river; at from 2 to 300 yards from the river, a swamp 
extends parallel to it, throughout the whole distance; the 
intermediate ground is dry, and, although the trees are 
tolerably thick, it is in many places clear of underbrush ; 
across this strip of land, its left appuayed upon the river, 
supported by artillery, placed in the wood ; their right in 
the swamp, covered by the whole of their Indian force — 
the British troops were drawn up. 



137 

The troops, at mf disposal, consisted of about 120 re- 
gulars of the 27th regiment, five brigades of Kentucky 
Tolunteers, militia infantry, under his excellency Govern- 
or Shelby, averaging less than 500 men; and Col John- 
son's regiment of mounted infantry, making, in the whole, 
an aggregate of something above 3000. No disposition 
of an army, opposed to an Indian force, can be safe, unless 
it is secured on the flanks, and in the rear ; I had, there- 
fore, no difficulty in ai ranging the infantry, conformably to 
my general order of battle. General Trotter's brigade, 
of 500 men, formed the front line ; his right upon ttie road 
— his left upon the swamp ; Gen. King's brigade, as a 
second line, 150 yards in the rear of Trotter's ; and 
Chile's brigade, as a corps of reserve, in the rear of it — 
these three brigades formed the command of Major Gene- 
ral Henry ; the whole of Gen. Desha's division, consisting^ 
of two brigades, were formed, en potcnce, upon the left of 
Trotter. 

Whilst I was engaged in forming the infantry, I had di- 
rected Col. Johnson's regiment, which was still in front, 
to be formed in two lines, opposite to the enemy ; and, 
upon the advance of the infantry, to take the ground upon 
the left ; and, forming upon the flank, to endeavor to turn 
the right of the Indians. 

A moment's reflection, however, convinced me, that, 
from the thickness of the woods, and swampiness of the 
ground, they would be unable to do any thing on horse- 
back — and there was no time to dismount them, and place 
their horses in security; I, therefore, determined to refuse 
my left to the Indians, and to break the British lines, at 
once, by a charge of the mounted infantry. The measure 
was not sanctioned by any thing that I had seen or heaid 
of, but I was fully convinced that it would yicceed. The 
American back-woodsmen ride bettf r in the woods than 
any other people; a musquet, or rifle, is no imjiediment 
to them, being accustomed to carry them, on horseback, 
from their earliest youth. I was persuaded, too, that the 
enemy would be quite unprepared for the shock, and that 
they could not resist it. Conformably to this idea, I di- 
rrctcd the resfiment to be drawn up in close column, witk 



138 

hf right at the distance of 50 yards upon the road, (that 
it might be, in some measure, protected by the trees, from 
the artillery,) its left upon tlie swamp, and to charge, at 
fuil speed, as soon as the enemy dehvered their fire. The 
few regular troops, of the 27th, under their Colonel, 
(Paul) occupied, in columns of four, the small space be- 
tween the road and the river, for the purpose of seizing 
the enemy's artillery; and some, 10 or 12, friendly In- 
dians were directed to move under the bank. The crotch- 
et, formed by the front line, and Gen. Desha's division, 
was an important point ; at this place the venerable go- 
vernor of Kentucky was posted, who, at the age of 66, 
preserves all the vigor of youth — the ardent zeal, which 
distinguished him in the revolutionary war — and the un- 
daunted bravery, which he manifested at King's Mountain^ 
With my aids-de-camp, the acting assistant Adjutant Gen. 
Capt. Butler; my gallant friend. Com. Perry, who did me 
the honor to serve as my volunteer aid-de-camp, and 
Brig. Gen. Cass, who, having no command, tendered me 
his assistance — I placed myself at the head of the front 
line of infantry, to direct the movements of the cavalry, 
and give them the necessary support. The array had mo- 
ved on, in this order, but a short distance, when the mount- 
ed men received the fire of the British line, and were or- 
dered to charge ; the horses, in the front of the column, 
recoiled from the fire ; another was given by the enemy, 
and our column, at length getting in motion, broke through 
the enemy with irresistible force. In one minute the con- 
test, in front, was over. The British officers, seeing no 
hopes of reducing tlieir disordered ranks to order, and 
our mounted men wheeling upon them, and pouring in a 
destructive fire, immediately surrendered. It is certain 
that three only, of our troops, were wounded in this 
charge. Upon the left, however, the contest was more 
severe, with the Indians : Col. Johnson, who commanded 
on that flank of his regiment, received a most galling fire 
from them, which was returned with great effect. The 
Indians, still further to the right, advanced, and fell in 
with our front line of Infantry, near its junction with De- 
sha's division, and, for a moment, made an impression upon 



139 

it. His excellency, Gov. Shelby, however, bi'ought up a 
regiment to its support ; and the enemy, receivinj^ a severe 
fire in front, and a part of Johnson's regiment havino- 
gained their rear, retreated with precipitation. Their 
loss was considerable in the action, and many were killed 
in their retreat. 

I can give no satisfactory information of the number of 
Indians tliat were in the action ; but they must have been 
considerably upwards of one thousand. From the docu- 
ments in my possession, (Gen. Proctor's oflicial letters, 
all of which were taken) and from the information of res- 
pectable inhabitants of this territory, the Indians, kept in 
pay by the British, were much more numerous than has 
been generally supposed. In a letter to Gen. De Rotten- 
burg, of the 27th mst. Gen. Proctor speaks of having pre- 
vailed upon most of the Indians to accompany him ; of 
these, it is certain that 50 or 60 Wyandot warriors aban- 
doned him. 

The number of our troops was certainly greater than 
that of the enemy ; but, when it is recollected that they 
had chosen a position, which effectually secured their 
flank, which it was impossible for us to turn ; and that we 
could not present to them a line more extended than their 
own, it will not be considered arrogant to claim, for mv 
troops, the palm of superior bravery. 

In communicatino; to the President, throuo-h vou, sir. 
my opinion of the conduct of the ofiicers, who served un- 
der my command, I am at a Joss how to mention that of 
Gov. Shelby, being convinced that no eulogium of mine 
can reach his merits ; the governor of an independent 
state — greatly my superior in years, in experience, and in 
military character — he placed himself under my command; 
and was not more remarkable for his zeal and activity, 
than for the promptitude and cheerfulness with wliich he 
obeyed my orders. 

The Major-Generals, Henry and Desha, and the Bri- 
gadiers, Allen, Caldwell, Chiles, and Trotter, all of the 
Kentucky volunteers, manifested great zeal and activity. 

It would be useless, sir, after stating the circumstances 
of the action, to pass encomiums upon Co^. Johnson, and 



140 

his regiment — veterans could not have manifested more 
firmness ; tiie Colonel's numerous wounds prove that he 
was in the post of danger. Lieut. Col. James Johnson, 
and the Majors Payne and Thompson, were equally ac- 
tive, though more fortunate. Maj. Wood, of the engi- 
neers, already distinguished, by his conduct at fort Meigs, 
attended the army with two 6 pounders ; having no use 
for them in the action, he joined in the pursuit of the ene- 
my ; and, w ith Maj. Payne, of the mounted regiment, two 
of my aids-de-camp, Todd and Chambers, and three pri- 
vates, continued it for several miles after ihe troops had 
halted, and made many prisoners. 

I left the army before an official return of the prisoners, 
or that of the killed and wounded, was made out; it was, 
however, ascertained, that the former amounted to 601 
regulars, including 25 officers. Our loss is seven killed, 
and 22 wounded, five of which have since died. Of the 
British troops, 12 were killed, and 22 wounded ; the In- 
dians suffered most — 33 of them having been found upon 
the ground, besides those killed on the retreat. 

On the day of the action, six pieces of brass artillery 
were taken — and 2 iron 24 pounders, the day before ; — 
several others were discovered in the river, and can be 
easily procured. Of the brass pieces, 3 are the trophies 
of our revolutionary war, that were taken at Saratoga and 
York, and surrendered by Gen. Hull. The number of 
small arms, taken by us, and destroyed by the enemy, 
must amount to upwards of 5000 ; most of them had been 
ours, and taken by the enemy at the surrender of Detroit, 
at the river Raisin, and at Col. Dudley's defeat. I believe 
that the enemy retain no other trophy of their victories, 
than the standard of the 4th regiment ; they were not 
magnanimous enough to bring that of the 41st into the 
field, or it would have been taken. You have been in- 
formed, sir, of the conduct of the troops, under my com- 
mand, in action ; it gives me great pleasure to inform you, 
that they merit, also, the approbation of their country, for 
their conduct — in submitting to the greatest privations, 
with the utmost cheerfulness. 



141 

The infantry were entirely without tents ; and, tor se- 
veral days, the whole army subsisted upon fresh beef, 
without bread or salt. — Gen. Proctor escaped by the fleet- 
ness of his horses, escorted by 40 dragoons, and a number 
•f Indians. 

I have the honor, &c. 

WILLIAM H. HARRISON. 
Hon. J. Armslrons;, Sec. War. 



PRIVATEER SARATOGA. 

Extract of a letter from Thomas Adertouy Esq. Commander of the prU 
vate armed schr. Saratoga, to the owners, in New- York. 

" We have been chased by brigs, frigates, and line of 
battle ships ; but, at last, off Surinam river, in about 4 
fathom water, we captured the British packet-brig Mor- 
giana, of 18 guns, (16 long 9's, and two 12's,) and be- 
tween 40 and 50 men, James Cunningham, commander, 
from Falmouth, 29 days out, for Surinam. We discover- 
ed the brig at half past 5, A. M. Sept. 26, on our lee bow 
— made sail in chase. Being to the windward of Surinam, 
she ran down before the wind, for the river, and gave us 
a hard run. At a little before 3, P. M. got nearly within 
musquet-shot, when the chase hoisted English colours, and 
gave us her stern chasers, which she repeated three times, 
and cut away some of our rigging. At 3, P. M. we hoist- 
ed American colors ; and, being within good musquet shot, 
we commenced the action, and continued, a considerable 
part of the time, within pistol-shot — and a part of the 
time close along side — till 25 minutes past 4, P. M. when 
we carried her by boarding, after a severe action, in which 
the Saratoga, as well as her prize, were made almost 
wrecks — stays, shrouds, &;c. ahnost all cut away, and 
more than one hundred shot-holes in her main-sail — many 
in our masts, spars, and hull. The bulwarks of the Mor- 
giana being equal, if not superior to those of the Saratoga, 
enabled her to hold out as long as she did. They fought 
desperately ; and even beyond what prudence would dic- 
tate : she had two killed, and eight wounded ; (6 mor- 



142 

tally,) amon^ which is James Cunningham, Esq. her com- 
mander. With regret I have to inform you, our loss was 
the 1st Lieut. Mr. Sebring, and one man killed, one mor- 
tally w^ounded, and 3 or 4 slightly wounded 

I send Mr. George H. Fellows, prize-master ; Mr. Til- 
ton Newcomb, mate ; and 12 men, in the brig, ordering 
her for some port in the U. States, as best suits circum- 
stances and convenience ; and, as she is a very fast sailing 
vessel, feel much confidence that she will arrive safe ; she 
sails nearly as well as the Saratoga, and, I think, will 
make an excellent privateer. She has been a Spanish 
sloop of war, a French sloop of war, an English packet, 
and is now a Yankee prize^ and is a fine vessel. The 
Saratoga had but 4 guns, and 116 men — having thrown 
overboard the rest of her guns, in a chase. 



COL. CLARK'S EXPEDITION. 

Copy of a Utter from Brigadier-General Parker, to the Secreta- 
ry of War, dated 

Burlington, Vt. Oct. 1813. 

SIR — I have the honor to enclose you a communication* 
from Col. Isaac Clark, dated the 15th inst. The expedi- 
tion appears to have been well concerted, and happily 
executed ; for which the Colonel deserves great credit. 

On our part, none were killed, and only two wounded 
— neither of them dangerously. 

I have the honor, &c. 

THOMAS PARKER, Brig. Gen. comg. 
Hon. J. Armstrong., Sec. War. 



Extract of a letter from Col. Isaac Clark, to Brigadier-General Par- 
ker, dated 

Camp, Chazey Landing, Oct. 15, 1813. 
It is with great pleasure I can inform you, of a success- 
ful attack upon the enemy, at Missisqui bay, on the morn- 



143 

ing of the 12th inst. [after detailing his approach to the 
enemy, which evinces an excellent knowledge of the coun- 
try, the Col. states :] at this time, I had only the riflemen 
with me — the artillery moving slow? and the militia pro- 
tectins: their rear. 

We proceeded to the village, (Misaisqui,) and arrived 
within 1 5 rods of the enemy, before we were discovered. 
We found them drawn up, under Maj. Powell, in a man- 
ner that would have annoyed us much, had we attacked 
them by water ; but, wholly unprepared to defend them- 
selves on the land side, they commenced a fire on the left 
flank ; but, in ten minutes after the first attack, they laid 
down their arms, and surrendered themselves prisoners of 
war. 

Understanding that a force of 200 men, under Colonel 
Lock, was marching to attack us, I dispatched Captain 
Finch, with his company, to reconnoiter them, and ascer- 
tain their course ; he proceeded with such promptness and 
ability, as to surprize and capture the advanced guard, 
consisting of cavalry, excepting one man ; who escaped, 
and, giving the information, the enemy retreated ; — the 
prisoners were then put on board our boats, and sent to 
Burling-ton. 

Our whole force, engaged, was 102 — the number of 
prisoners taken, is 101 — their killed, 9 — and wounded, 14. 

I am, sir, &c. 

ISAAC CLARK. 
Brig. Gen. Parker. 



SOUTHERN INDIAN WAR. 

Copy of a letter from Brig. Gen. John Coffee, to Maj. Gen. Andrew 
Jackson, dated 

Camp, at Ten IslaridSy Nov. 4th, 1813. 

SIR — I had the honor, yesterday, of transmitting you a 

short account of an engagement that took place, between 

a detachment of about 900 men from my brigade, with 

the enemy, at Tallushatches towns, the particulars where- 



144 

of I beg leave to recite to you : — Pursuant t6 your orders 
of the 2d, I detailed, from my brigade of cavalry and 
mounted riflemen, 900 men and officers, and proceeded di- 
rectly to the Tallushatches towns ; crossed Coosey river, 
at the fish-dam ford, 3 or 4 miles above this place. I ar- 
rived within one and a half miles of the town, (distant 
from this place, S. E. 8 miles,) on the morning of the 3d, 
at which place I divided ray detachment into two columns ; 
the right, composed of the cavalry, commanded by Col. 
Allcorn, to cross over a large creek, that lay between us 
and the towns; the left column was of the mounted rifle- 
men, commanded by Col. Cannon, with whom I marched 
myself Col. Allcorn was ordered to march up on the 
right, and encircle one half of the town ; and, at the same 
time, the left would form a half-circle on the left, and 
unite the head of the columns in front of the town; all of 
which was performed, as I could wish. When I arrived 
within half a mile of the towns, the drums of the enemy 
began to beat, mingled with their savage yells, preparing 
for action. It was after sun-rise, an hour, when the action 
was brought on by Capt. Hammond and Lieut. Patter- 
son's companies, who had gone on, within the circle of 
alignment, for the purpose of drawing out the enemy from 
their buildings, which had the most happy effects. As 
soon as Capt. Hammand exhibited his front, in view of the 
town, (Avhich stood in open woodland) and gave a few 
scattering shot, the enemy formed, and made a violent 
charge on him; he gave way, as they advanced, until 
they met our ri^ht column, which gave them a general 
fire, and then charged ; this changed the direction of 
charge, completely — the enemy retreated, firing, until 
they got around, and in their buildings, where they made 
all the resistance that an overpowered soldier could do ; 
they fought as long as one existed, but their destruction 
was very soon completed ; our men rushed up to the 
doors of their houses, and, in a few minutes, killed the 
last warrior of them. The enemy fought with savage fu^ 
ry, and met death, with all its horrors, without shrinking, 
or complaining ; not one asked to be spared, but fought 
3s long as they could stand or ait. In consequence of 



145 

their flying to their houses, and mixins; with their fami- 
lies, our men, in kijiino; the males, without inteiiiion 
killed and wounded a few of the squaws and chikhen, 
which was regretted by every officer and soldier of the 
detachment, but which could not be avoided. 'I lie 
number of the enemy, killed, was 186 that were count- 
ed, and a number of oheis that were killed in tlie 
weeds, not found; I think the calculation a reasonable 
one, to say, 200 of them were killed, and 81 piibon»rs, 
of women and children, were taken ; not one of the 
warriors escaped, to carry the news — a circutnstance 
unknown heretofore. 

I lost 5 men killed, and 41 wounded ; none mortally 
— the greater part slightly ; a number with arrows ; — 
this appears to form a principal part of the enem\'s 
arms, for warfare ; every man having a bow, with a 
bundle of arrows, which is used after the iJvA tire 
with the gun, until a leisure time for loading ofiers. 

1 have the honor, &:c. 

JOHN COFFEE, Brig. Gen. 

Maj. Gen. Andrew Jackson. 



PRO€LAMATrON. 

James Wilkinson, Major-General, and Commander in 
Chief of an Expedition against the Canadas, to the In- 
habitants thereof : — 

The army of the United States, which I have the 
honor to command, invades these Provinces — to con- 
quer, and not to destroy ; to subdue the forces of his 
Britannic majesty, not to war against his unoffending 
subjects. Those, therefore, among you, who remain 
quiet at home, should victory incline to the iVmerican 
standard, shall be protected in their persons and pro- 
perty ; but those who are found in arni'i, must necessa- 
rilv be treated as avowed enemies. 

T 



14G 

To menace, is unjust — to seduce, dishonorable — yet 
it is just and liumane to place these alternatives before 
you. 

Done at the Head-Quarters of the Army of the 
United States, this 6th day of November, 1813, 
near Oodensburgh, on the St Lawrence. 

JAMES WILKINSON. 
By the General's command, 

N. PINKNEY, Major, and A. D. C, 



PROCEEDINGS OF THE ARMY. 

From Gen. Wilkinson, to the Secretary of War. 

Head-Quarters, French Mills, adjoining the Province 
of Lower Canada, November 16, 1813. 

S[R — I beg leave to refer you to the journal, which 
accompanies this letter, for the particulars of the move- 
ments of the corps, under my command, down the St. 
Lawrence, and will endeavor to exert my enfeebled 
mind to detail to you the more striking and important 
incidents, Avhich have ensued my departure from Gren- 
adier Island, at the foot of Lake Ontario, on the 3d 
instant. 

The corps of the enemy, at Kingston, which follow- 
ed me, hung on my rear ; and, in concert with a heavy 
o-alley, and a few gun-boats, seemed determined to re- 
fa rd my progress. I was strongly tempted to halt — 
turn about, and put an end to his teazing ; but, alas I 
I was confined to my bed — Maj. Gen. Lewis was too ill 
for any active exertion ; and, above all, I did not dare 
suffer myself to be diverted, a single day, from a pro- 
secution of the views of government. I had written 
Maj. Gen. Hampton, on the 6th inst. by his Adjutant- 
General, Col. King, and had ordered him to form a 
junction with me, on the St. Lawrence, which I expect- 
ed would take place on the 9th or 10th. It would 
have been unpardonable, had 1 lost sight of this object, 



147 

a moment, as I deemed it of vital importance to the 
issue of the campaign. 

The enemy deserve credit for their zeal and intelli- 
gence, which the active, universal hostility, of the male 
inhabitants of the country enabled them to employ, to 
the greatest advantage.. Thus, while menaced by a res- 
pectable force in the rear, the coast was lined with 
musquetry in front, at every critical pass of the river, 
which obliged me to march a detachment, and this im- 
peded my progress. 

On the evening of the 9th inst. the army halted, a 
few miles from the head of the Longue Saut ; In the 
morning of the 10th, the enclosed order was issued. — 
General Brown marched agreeably to order, and about 
noon we were apprized, by the report of his artillery, 
that he was engaged, some distance below us. At the 
same time, the enemy were observed in our rear ; and 
their galley and gun-boats approached our flotilla, and 
opened a i^re upon us, whic h obliged me to order a bat- 
tery of 18 pounders to be planted, and a shot from it 
compelled the vessels of the enemy to retire, together 
with their troops, after some firing between the advan- 
ced parties. 

But, by this time, in consequence of disembaiking, 
and re-embarking the heavy guns, the day was so far 
spent, that our pilots did not dare to enter the Saut j 
(eight miles, a continued rapid,) and, therefore, we fell 
down about two miles, and come to for the niglrt. 

Early the next morning, every thing was in readiness 
for motion; but, having received no intelligence from 
Gen. Brown, I was still delayed, as sound caution pre- 
scribed I should learn the result of the aflaii', before I 
committed the flotilla to the Saut. At half past 10, 
A. M. an officer of dragoons arrived with a letter, in 
which the General informed me he had forced the ene- 
my, and would reach the foot of the Saut, early in the 
day. Orders were immediately given, for the flotilla 
to sail ; at which instant the enemy's gun-boats appear- 
ed, and began to throw shot among us ; information 
was brought me, at the same time, from Brig. General 



i48 

Boyd, that the enemy's troops were advancing in co- 
in uui ; I iinmediatelv sent orders to him to attack them. 
This report was soon contradicted ; their boats, how- 
ever, continued to scratch us, and a variety of reports 
of their movements, and cnunter-movements, were 
brought to me in succession ; which convinced me of 
their determination to ha-ard an attack, when it couid 
be done to the gieatest advantage ; and, therefore, I 
resolved to anticipate them. Directions were, accord- 
ingly, sent, by that distinguished bificer. Col. Swift, of 
the engineers, to Brig. Gen. Boyd, to throw the detach- 
ments oi his command, assigned to him in the order of 
the preceding day, and composed of men of his own, 
C^ovington's and Svvartwout's brigade-;, into three co- 
lumns, to march upon the enemy, outflank them if pos- 
sible, and take their artillery. The action soon after 
commenced with the advanced body of the enemy, 
and became extremely sharp and galling, and with oc- 
casional pauses, not sustained with great vivacity, in 
open space and fair combat, for upwards of two and an 
half hours, the adverse lines alternately yielding and 
advancing. 

it is impossible to say, with accuracy, what was our 
number on the field ; because it consisted of indefinite 
detachments, taken from the boats, to render safe the 
passage of the Saut. Generals Covington and Swart- 
w out voluntarily took part in the action, at the head of 
detachments from their lespective biigades, and exhi- 
ted the same courage that was displayed by Brig. Gen. 
Boyd, who happened to be the senior officer on the 
ground. Our force, engaged, might have reached 16 
or 1700 men; but actually did not exceed 1800; — 
that ot the enemy was estimated from 1200 to 2000, 
but probably did not amount to more than 15 or 1600 
— consisting, as I am informed, of detachments from 
the 49th, 84th, and 104th regiments of the line ; with 
three companies of the Voltigeur and Glengary corps, 
and the militia of the country, who are not included in 
the estimate. 

It would be presumptuous in me to attempt to give 



149 

you a detailed account of this affair, which certainly 
reflects high honor on the valor of the American sol- 
dier ; as no examples can be produced of undisciplined 
men, with inexperienced officers, bravinoj a fire of two 
hours and a half, without quittino; the field, or yielding 
to their antagonists. But, sir, the information I now 
give you, is derived from officers in my confidence, 
who took parts in this c^onflict; for, thoui>h I was ena- 
bled to order the attack, it was my hard foitune not to 
be able to lead the troops I commanded ; the disease, 
with which 1 was assailed the 2d September, on my 
journey to fort George, having, with a few short inter- 
vals of convalescence, pi eyed on me ever since ; and, 
at the moment of this action, I was confined to my bed, 
and emaciated almost to a skeleton; unable to sit on 
my horse, or to move ten paces with(»ut assistance. 

1 must, however, be pardoned for trespassing on your 
time a few remarks, in lelation to the affair: — the ob- 
jects of the British and A-iierican commanders were 
precisely opposed — the last being bound by instruc- 
tions of his government, and the most solemn obliga- 
tions of duty, to precipitate his descent of the St. Law- 
rence, by every practicable means ; because, this being 
effected, one of the greatest difficulties opposed to the 
American. arms would be surmounted — and the first, 
by duties equally imperious, to retard, and, if possible, 
to prevent such de>^cent. He is to be accounted vic- 
torious, who effects his purpose ! The British com- 
mander, having failed to gain either of his objects, can 
lay no claim to the honors of the day ; the battle fluc- 
tuated, and the triumph seemed, at different times, in- 
clined to the contending corps ; the front of the ene- 
my were, at first, forced back more than a mile ; and, 
though they never regained the ground they lost, their 
stand was permanent, and their charges resolute. 
Amidst these charges, and near the close of the con- 
test, we lost a field piece, by the fall of the officer, who 
was serving it with the same coolness, as if he had been 
at a parade of review ; this was Lieutenant Smith, of 
the light artillery, who, in point of merit, stood at the 



150 

head of his grade. The enemy having halted, and our 
troops being formed again, in battalion, front to front, 
and the firing having ceased on both sides, we resumed 
our position on the bank of the river, and the infantry 
being much fatigued, the whole were re-embarked, and 
proceeded further down the river, without fnrther an- 
noyance from the enemy or their gun-boats — while 
the dragoons, with five pieces of light aitillery, march- 
ed down the Canada shore, without molestation. 

It is due to his rank, to his worth, and his services, 
that I should make particular mention of Brig. Gen. 
Covington, who received a mortal wound directly 
through the body, while animating his men, and lead- 
ing them to the charge — lie fell, where he fought, at 
the head of his men, and survived but tw^o days. 

The next morning the flotilla passed the Saut, and 
joined that excellent officer. Brig. Gen. Brown, at 
Barnhart's, near Cornwall, where he had been inslruct- 
ed to take post, and wait my arrival ; and where 1 con- 
fidently expected to hear of Maj. Gen. Hampton's ar- 
rival, on the opposite shore. But, immediately after I 
halted, Col. Atkinson, the Inspector-General of the di- 
vision under Maj. Gen. Hampton, waited on me, with 
a letter from that officer ; in which, to my unspeaka- 
ble mortification and surprize, he declined the junction 
ordered, and informed me he was marching towards 
Lake Champlain, by way of co-operating in the pro- 
posed attack on Montreal. This letter, together with 
a copy of that to which it was an answer, were immedi- 
ately submitted to a Council of War, consisting of my 
general officers, and the Colonel commanding the elite, 
the chief engineer, and the Adjutant-General — who 
unanimously gave it as their opinion " that the 
attack on Montreal should be abandoned for the 
present season, and the army near Cornwall should 
be immediately crossed to the American shore, for 
taking up winter quarters ; and that this place afford- 
ed an eligible situation for such quarters." 

I acquiesced in those opinions, not from the short- 
ness of the stock of provisions, (which had been redu- 
ced by the acts of God,) because that of our meat had 



151 

been increased five days, and our bread had been re- 
duced only two days ; and, because we could, in case 
of extremity, have lived upon the enemy — but because 
the loss of Maj. Gen. Hampton weakened my force too 
sensibly, to justify the attempt. In all my measures, 
and movements of moment, I have taken the opinions 
of my general officers, which have been in accord with 
my own. 

I remained on the Canada shore until the next day, 
without seeing or hearing from the " powerful force" 
of the enemy in our neighborhood, and the same day 
reached this position, with the artillery and infantry. 
The dragoons have been ordered to Utica, and its vi- 
cinity ; and, I expect, are 50 or 60 miles on their 
march. 

You have, under cover, a summary abstract of the 
killed and wounded, in the affair of the 11th instant, 
which shall soon be followed by a particular return, in 
which a just regard shall be paid to individual merits 
— the dead rest in honor, and the wounded bled for their 
country, and deserve its gratitude. 

With perfect respect, &c. 

JAMES WILKINSON. 

In the action of the 11th inst. the American loss was 
102 killed, and 232 wounded — total, killed and wound- 
ed, 334. 



THE PROPOSED JUNCTION. 

From General Wilkinson, to General Hampton. 

H. Q. of the Army, 7 miles above Ogdensburgli, 
Nov. 6, 1813. (in the evening.) 

SIR — I address you at the special instance of the 
Secretary of War, who, by bad roads, worse weather, 
and ill health, was diverted from meeting me, near this 
place, and determined to tread back his steps to Wash- 
ington, from Antwerp, on the 29th ult. 

I am destined to, and determined on the attack of 



152 

Montreal, if not prevented by some act of God ; and 
to ^ive security lo Ihe enterprize, the division under 
your commnnJ must co-operate with the corps under 
my immediate orders. 1 he point of rendezvous is the 
circumstance of greatest interest to the issue of thi^ 
operaiiun ; and the distance which separates us, and my 
ignorance ot the practicability of the direct or devious 
routes, by which you must marth, make it necessary 
that your own judgment should determine that point. 
To assist you in making the soutidest determination, 
and to take the most prompt and determined measures, 
I can only inform you of my intentions and situation, 
in some respects of first importance : — I shall pass 
Prescott to-night, because the stage of the season will 
not allow me three days to take it — shall cross the ca- 
valry at Hamilton, which will not require a day ; — I 
shall thence press forward, and break down every op- 
position, to this river, there to cross the Isle Perrot, 
and, with my scows, to bridge the narrow inner chan- 
nel, and thus obtain foothold on Montreal Island, at 
about 20 miles from the city ; after which, our artille- 
ry, bayonets, and swords, must secure our triumph, or 
provide us honorable graves. 

Inclosed you have a memorandum of field and bat- 
tering train, pietty well found in fixed ammunition, 
which may enable you to dismiss your own ; but we 
are deficient in loose powder, and musquet cartridges; 
and, therefore, hope you may be abundantly found. 

On the subject of provisions, I wish I could give a 
favorable information ; our whole stock of bread may 
be computed at about 1 5 days, and our meat at 20. In 
speaking on this subject to the Secretary of War, he 
informed me, ample magazines were laid up on Lake 
Champlain, and, therefore, I must request of you to 
order forward two or three months supply, by the safest 
route, in a direction to the proposed scene of action. 
I have submitted the state of our provisions to my ge- 
neral officers, who unanimously agree that it should 
not prevent the progress of the expedition ; and they 



153 

also agree in opinion, if you are not in force to face the 
enemy, you should meet us at St. Regis, or its vicinity. 

I shall expect to hear from, if not see you at that place, 
on the 9th. 

I have the honor, &c. 

JAMES WILKINSON. 
MaJ. Gen. Hamplon. 



ANSWER. 

From Gen. Hampton to Gen. Wilkinson. 
Head-Quarters, Four Corners, Nov. 8, 1813. 

SIR — I had the honor to receive, at a late hour last 
evening, by Col. King, your communication of the 6th ; 
and was deeply impressed with a sense of the responsi- 
bility it imposed, of deciding upon the means of our co- 
operation. The idea suggested, as the opinion of your 
officers, of effecting the junction at St. Regis, was most 
pleasing, as being most immediate, until I came to the 
disclosure of the amount of your supplies of provisions. — 
Col. Atkinson will explain the reasons, that would have 
rendered it impossible for me to have brought more than 
each man could have carried on his back ; and, when I 
reflected, that in throwing myself upon your scanty means, 
I should be weakening you in your most vulnerable point, 
I did not hesitate to adopt the opinion, after consulting the 
general and principal officers, that, by throwing myself 
back on my main depot, when all the means of transport- 
ation had gone, and falling upon the enemy's flank, and 
straining every eflfort to open a communication from 
Plattsburgh to Coghnowaga, or any other point you may 
indicate on the St. Lawrence, I should more effectually 
contribute to your success, than by a junction at St. Re- 
gis ; the way is, in many places, blockaded and abattod, 
and the road impracticable for wheel-carriages durino^ the 
winter ; but, by the employment of pack-horses, if I am 
not overpowered, I hope to prevent your starving. I 
have aiscertained, and witnessed, that the plan of the ene- 

U 



154 

my is to burn, and consume every thing in our advance. 
My troops, and other means, w^ill be described to you by 
Col. Atkinson; besides the rawness and sickness, they 
have endured fatigues, equal to a winter's campaign, in 
the late snows and bad weather, and are sadly dispirited 
and fallen otf ; but, upon this subject, I must refer you to 
Col. Atkinson. 

With these means, what can be accomplished by human 
exertion, I will attempt — with a mind devoted to the ge- 
neral objects of tlie campaign. 

1 have the honor, &c. 

W. HAMPTON. 
His Ex. Maj. Gen. J. Wilkinson. 



THE AFFAIR AT WILLIAMSBURGH. 

Gen. Wilkinson to Gen. Armstrong. 

H. Quarters, French Mills, Nov. 18, 1813. 
SIR — I beg this may be considered as an appendage 
to my official communication, respecting the action of the 
11th inst. 1 last evenino- received the enclosed iuforma- 
tion, the result of the exammation of sundry prisoners, 
taken on the field of battle ; which justifies the opinion of 
the surviving general officers, who were in the engage- 
ment. This goes to prove, that though the imperious 
obligation of duty did not allow me sufficient time to route 
the enemy, they were beaten — the accidental loss of one 
field-piece notwithstanding, after it had been discharged 
15 or 20 times. I have also learned, from what is con- 
sidered good authority, (but I will not vouch for the cor- 
rectness of it,) that the enemy's loss exceeded 500, killed 
and wounded. The enclosed report will correct an error 
in my former communication : as, it appears, it was the 
3Dth, and not the 84th British regiment, which was en- 
gaged on the 11th. I beg leave to mention, relative to 
the action of the lltli, what, from my extreme indisposi- 
tion, I have omitted : — having received information, late 
in the day, that the contest had become somewhat dubi- 



1.55 

ous, I ordered up a reserve of 600 men, whom I had di- 
rected to stand by their arms, under Lieut. Col. Upham, 
who gallantly led them into action, which terminated a 
(ew minutes after their arrival on the ground. 
With consideration, &c. 

JAMES WILKINSON. 
Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. Wan 

The strength of the enemy, according to the statement 
of a number of British prisoners^ taken on the field of bat- 
tle, (and separately examined,) was 2,100 men — 4 pieces 
of artillery, and 7 gun-boats, one mounting a 24 pounder. 



AFFAIR AT CHATAUGAY. 

Copy of a letter from General Wade Hampton, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

H. Quarters, Four Corners, Nov. 1. 1813- 
SIR — On the morning of the 21st ult. the army com- 
menced its movement down the Chataugay, for the pur- 
pose of placing itself in a situation wliich would enable it 
to fulfil its parts of the proposed combined operations, on 
the St. Lawrence. 

An extensive wood, of 11 or 12 miles in front, blocked 
up with felled timber, and covered by tlie Indians and 
light troops of the enemy, was a serious impediment to 
the arduous task of opening a road for the artillery and 
stores. Brig. Gen. Izard, with the light troops, and one 
regiment of the line, was detached, early in the morning, 
to turn these impediments in flank, and to seize on the 
more open country below ; while the army, preceded by 
a strong working party, advanced on a more circuitous 
but practicable route for a road. The measure, as will 
be seen by the report of Brig. Gen. Izard, which I have 
the honor to enclose, completely succeeded ; and the main 
body of the army reached the advanced position, on the 
evening of the 22d ; the 23d and 24th were employed in 
completing the road, and getting up the artillery and 
stores. 



^ 156 

I had arranged, at my departure, under the direction ot' 
Major Parker, a line ol communication, as far up the St. 
Lawrence as O^^densburgh, for the purpose of hastening 
to me the earliest notice of the progress of our army down. 
I had surmounted 24 miles of the most difficult part of 
the route, and had, in advance of me, seven miles of open 
country ; but, at the end of that distance, commenced a 
wood of some miles in extent, which had been formed in- 
to an entire abattis, and filled by a succession of wooden 
breast-works, the rearmost of which were supplied with 
ordnance. In front of these defences were placed the In- 
dian force, and light corps of the enemy ; and, in the rear, 
all of his disposable force. As the extent of this force 
depended upon his sense of danger on the St. Lawrence, 
it was a cause of regret that all communication, from 
yourself or iVlajor Parker, seemed to be at an end. As it 
was, however, believed that the enemy was houily adding 
to his strength, in this position — if free from the appre- 
hension of dan2:er from above, an effort was judged ne- 
cessary to dislodge him ; and, if it succeeded, we should 
be in possession of a position which we could hold as long 
as any doubts remained of what was passing above, and 
of the real part to be assigned us. 

Our guides assured us of a shoal and practicable ford- 
ing-place, opposite the lower flank of the enemy's de- 
fences ; and that the wood, on the opposite side of the 
river, a distance of seven or eight miles, was practicable 
for the passage of the troops. Col. Purdy, with the light 
corps, and a strong body of infantry of the line, was de- 
tached, at an early hour of the night of the 25th, to gain 
this ford by the morning, and to commence his attack in 
the rear ; and that was to be the signal for the army to 
fall on in front — and, it was believed, the pass might be 
carried, before the enemy's distant troops could be brought 
forward to its support. 

I had returned to ray quarters, from Purdy's column, 
about 9 o'clock at night, when I found a Mr. Baldwin, of 
the Quarter-Master General's department, who put into 
my hands an open paper, containing instructions to him, 
from the Quarter-Master General, respecting the building 



157 

of huts for the army, in Chataugay, below the hne. This 
paper sunk my hopes, and raised serious doubts of receiv- 
ing that efficacious support which had been anticipated ; 
I would have recalled the column, but it was in motion — 
and the darkness of the night rendered it impracticable. 
I could only go forward. The army was put in motion 
on the morning of the 26th, leaving its baggage &c. on 
the ground of encampment. 

On advancing near the enemy, it was found that the 
column, on the opposite side, was not as far advanced as 
had been anticipated ; the guides had misled it, and final- 
ly tailed in tinding the ford. We could not communicate 
with it, but only awaited the attack below. About two 
o'clock the firing commenced, and our troops advanced 
rapidly to the attack. The enemy's hght troops com- 
menced a sharp fire, but Brig. Gen. Izard advanced, with 
his brigade — diove him every where behind his defences, 
and silenced the fire in his front. This brigade would 
have pusjied forward, as far as courage, skill and perseve- 
rance couid have carried it ; but, on advancing, it was 
found that the firing had commenced on the opposite side, 
and the ford had not been gained. The enemy retired 
behind his defences ; but a renewal of his attack was ex- 
pected, and the troops remained some time in their posi- 
tion to meet it. The troops, on the opposite side, were 
excessively fatigued ; the enterprize had failed in its main 

f)oint ; and Col. Purdy was ordered to withdraw his co- 
umn to a shoal, four or five miles above, and cross over. 
The day was spent, and Gen. Izard was ordered to with- 
draw his briaade to a position, three miles in the rear, to 
which place the bagga .',e had been ordered forward. 

The slowness, and order, with which Gen. Izard retired 
with his brigade, could but have inspired the enemy with 
respect ; they presumed not to venture a shot at him dur- 
ing his movement ; but the unguardedness of some part 
of Purdy's command exposed him to a rear attack from 
the Indians, which was repeated after dark, and exposed 
him to some loss ; these attacks were always repelled, and 
must have cost the enemy as many lives as we lost. Our 
entire loss, of killed, wounded, and missing, docs not ex- 



158 

ceed 50. In its new position, within three miles ot" the 
enemy's post, the army encamped on the night ot the 26th, 
and remained until 12 o'clock of the 28th. All the de- 
serters, of Avhom there vv ere four, having concurred in the 
information that Sir George Prevost, with three other ge- 
neral officers, had arrived, with the whole of his disposa- 
ble force, and lay in the rear of these defences ; and a 
letter from Major Parker, (by express, received on the 
evening of the 26th,) having informed me that no move- 
ments of our army, down the St. Lawrence, had been 
heard of at Ogdensburgh, and for some distance above. 
The following questions were submitted to the command- 
ing officers of brigades, regiments and corps, and the 
heads of the j>;eneral staff, in a council, convened for the 
purpose : — " Is it advisable, under existing circumstances, 
to renew the attack on the enemy's position ; and, if not, 
what position is it advisable for the army to take, until it 
can receive advices of the advance of the grand army down 
the St. Lawrence ?" The opinion of the council was ex- 
pressed in the following words : — " It is the unanimous 
opinion of this council, that it is necessary, for the pre- 
servation of this army, and the fulfilment of the ostensible 
views of the government, that we immediately return, by 
orderly marches, to such a position, (Chataugay,) as will 
secure our communications with the U. States, either to 
retire into winter quarters, or to be ready to strike below." 
In pursuance of this opinion, the army has returned, by 
slow marches, to this place, and now awaits the orders of 
the government. Its condition will be stated by the bear- 
er. Col. King, who can give you, upon every point, more 
full and perfect information, than could be contained in a 
written detail. 

I have the honor, &c. 

W. HAMPTON. 

Hon. J. Armslrom^ Sec. War. 



159 
VICTORY OVER THE CREEKS. 

Copy of a letter from Major-Goicral Cocke, to the Secretary oj 
fVar, dated 

H. Q. Fort Armstrong, Nov. 28, 1813. 
SIR — I have the honor to enclose jou a copy of Brig. 
Gen. James White's detailed report of his excursion to 
the HilHbee Towns. 

I am, &c. 

JOHN COCKE, Major-General. 



GEN. WHITE'S REPORT. 

Fort Armstrong, Nov. 2Ulh 1813. 
DEAR GENERAL— In mine of the 19th instant, bv 
Major Outlaw, I promised you a detailed report, respect- 
ing the detachment ordered by you to the Hillibee Towns, 
in the Creek nation. In compliance with that promise, I 
have now the honor to state — That, under your order of 
the 11th inst. I immediately marched with the mounted 
infantry, under the immediate command of Col. Burch ; 
the cavalry, under the command of Major Porter; and a 
few of the Cherokee Indians, under the command of Col. 
Morgan — with very short rations for four days only. We 
continued our march to L^tle Oakfuskie, when we fell in 
with, and captured five hostile Creek warriors, supposed 
to be spies. Finding no other Indians at that place, we 
burned the town, which consisted of 30 houses. W^e then 
proceeded to a town called Genalga, and burned the same, 
consisting of 93 houses ; thenec we proceeded to Nitty 
Chaptoa, consisting of about 25 houses, which I consider- 
ed it most prudent not to destroy, as it might possiblv be 
of use at some future period. From thence we marched 
to the Hillibee Town, consisting of about 20 houses, ad- 
joining which was Grayson's farm. Previous to our arri- 
val at that place, I was advised that a part of the hostile 
Creeks was assembled there. Having marched within 
six or seven miles of it, on the 17th, I dismounted a part 
of the force under my command, and sent them, under 



160 

the command of Col. Burch, with the Cherokees, undei*" 
the command of Col. Morgan, in advance, to surround the 
town in the night, and make the attack at daylight, on 
the 18th. Owing to the darkness of the night, the town 
was not reached until after daylight — but so complete was 
the surprize, that we succeeded in surrounding the town, 
and killing, and capturing almost i^if not entirely) the 
whole of the hostile Creeks assembled there, consisting 
of about 316, of which number about 60 warriors were 
killed on the spot, and the remainder made prisoners. — 
Before the close of the engagement, my whole force was 
up, and ready for action, had it become necessary ; but, 
owing to the want of knowledge, on the part of the In- 
dians, of our approach, they were entirely killed and 
taken before they could prepare for any effectual defence. 
We lost not one drop of blood in accomplishing this enter- 
prize. We destroyed this village ; and, in obedience to 
j'our orders, commenced our march for this post, which 
we were unable to reach until yesterday. I estimate the 
distance, from this to Grayson's farm, at about 100 miles. 
The ground over which we travelled, is so rough and 
hilly as to render a passage very difficult. Many defiles 
It was impossible to pass in safety, without the greatest 
precaution^ For a part of the time, the weather was so 
very wet, being encumbered with prisoners, and the troops- 
and their horses having to subsist, in a very great degree, 
upon such supplies as we could procure in the nation, 
rendered our march more tardy than it otherwise would 
have been. 

The troops under my command have visited the heart 
of that section of the Creek nation where the Red Sticks 
were first distributed. 

In justice to this gallant band, I am proud to state, that 
the whole of the officers and men, under the command of 
Col. Burch, performed their duty cheerfully, and without 
complaint — that from the cool, orderly and prompt man- 
ner in which Major Porter, and the cavalry under his com- 
mand, formed and conducted themselves in every case of 
alarm, I had the highest confidence in them. Col. Mor» 
gan, and the Cherokees under his command, gave under 



161 

niable evidence that they merit the employ of their go- 
vernment. In short, sir, the whole detachment under my 
command, conducted in such a manner as to enable me to 
assure you that they are capable of performing any thing 
to which the same number of men are equal. 

It gives me pleasure to add, that Mr. M'Corry, who 
acted as my aid in this expedition, rendered services that 
to me were indispensible — to his country very useful, and 
to himself highly honorable. 

1 have the honor to be, &c. 

JAMES WHITE, Brig. Gen. 
Major Gen. John Cocke. 

GEN. FLOYD'S VICTORY OVER THE CREEKS. 

Head-Quarters, 6th and 1th districts. 

Milledgeville, 1th Dec. 1813. 
SIR — I have the honor of enclosing to you a copy of 
the official account which I have just received from Bri- 
gadier-General Floyd, of an attack made by him on the 
hostile Indians, and sincerely congratulate your excellency 
on the good conduct and bravery displayed on this occa- 
sion by the officers and troops of the state in which you 
preside. 

I have the honor to be, &c. 

THOMAS PINCKNEY, 
His excellency Peter Early. 



Camp west of Catahouchie, Dec. 4, 1813. 
Major-General Pinckney, 

SIR — I have the honor to communicate to your excel- 
lency, an account of an action fought the 29th ult. on the 
Talapoosie river, between part of the force under my 
command and a large body of the Creek Indians. 

Having received information that numbers of the hostile 
Indians were assembled at Autossee, a town on the south- 
ern bank of the Talapoosie, about eighteen miles from the 

X 



162 

Hickory-giound, and twenty above the junction of that 
river with the Coosa, 1 proceeded to it with 950 of the 
Georgia mihtia, accompanied bj between 3 and 400 
friendly Indians. Having encamped within nine or ten 
miles of the point of destination the preceding evening, we 
resumed the march a few minutes before one on the morn- 
ino- of the 29th, and at half past six were formed for ac- 
tion in front of the town. 

Booth's battalion composed the right column, and march- 
ed from its centre. Watson's battalion composed the left, 
and marched from its right; Adams' rifle company, and 
Me rri wether's under Lieutenant Hendon, were on the 
flanks; Captain Thomas' artillery marched in front of the 
ri<>;ht column in the road. 

It was my intention to have completely surrounded the 
enemy, by appui/iii^ the right wing of my force on Can- 
lehee creek, at the mouth of which I was informed the 
town stood, and resting the left on the river bank below 
the town ; but to our surprise, as day dawned, we per- 
ceived a second town about five hundred yards below that 
which we had first viewed, and were preparing to attack. 
The plan was immediately changed — three companies of 
infantry on the left were wheeled to the left into echellon, 
'and were advanced to the low town, accompanied by Me- 
riwether's rifle company, and two troops of light dragoons 
under the command of captains Irwin and Steele. 

The residue of the force approached the upper town, 
and the battle soon became general. The Indians pre- 
sented themselves at every point, and fought with the des- 
perate bravery of real fanatics. The well directed fire, 
however, of the artillery, added to the charge of the bay- 
onet, soon forced them to take refuge in the out houses, 
thickets, and copses in the rear of the town ; many it is 
believed, concealed themselves in caves, previously formed 
for the purpose of secure retreat, in the high bluff of the 
river, W'hich was thickly covered with reed and brush- 
wood. The Indians of the friendly party who accompa- 
nied us on the expedition, were divided into four com- 
panies, and placed under the command of leaders of their 
own selection. They were, by engagement entered into 



163 

the day previous, to have crossed the river above the town, 
and been posted on the opposite shore during the action, 
for the purpose of firing upon such of the enemy as might 
attempt to escape, or Keep in check any reinforcements 
which might probably be thrown in from the neighboring 
towns ; but owing to the difficulty of the ford, and cold- 
ness of the weather, and the lateness of the hour, this ar- 
rangement failed, and their leaders were directed to cross 
Canleebee creek, and occupy that flank, to prevent es- 
capes from the Tallisee tov/n. Some time alter the ac- 
tion commenced, our red friends thronged, in disorder, in 
the rear of our lines. The Cowetaws, under M'Intosh, 
and the Tookabatchians, under Mad Dog^s Son, fell on 
our flanks, and fought with an intrepidity worthy of any 
troops. 

At 9 o'clock the enemy was completely driven from 
the plain, and the houses of both towns wrapped in 
flames. As we were then 60 miles from any depot of 
provisions, and our five days rations pretty much reduced, 
in the heart of the enemy's country, which in a few mo- 
ments could have poured, from its numerous towns, hosts 
of its fiercest warriors — as soon as the dead and wounded 
were disposed of, I ordered the place to be abandoned, and 
the troops to commence their march to Chatahouche. 

It is difficult to determine the strength of the enemy ; 
but-, from the information of some of the chiefs, which it is 
said can be relied on, there were assembled at Autosse, 
warriors from eight towns, for its defence — it being their 
beloved ground, on which they proclaimed no white man 
could approach, without inevitable destruction. It is dif- 
ficult to give a precise account of the loss of the enemy ; 
but, from the number which were lying scattered over the 
field, together with those destroyed in the towns, and the 
many slain on the banks of the river, which respectable 
officers affirm they saw lying in heaps at the water's edge, 
where they had been precipitated by their surviving 
friends, their loss, in killed, independent of their wounded, 
must have been, at least, 200, (among whom are the Au- 
tosse and Tallissee kings,) and from the circumstance of 
their making no efforts to molest our return, probably 



164 

greater. The number of buildings burnt, some of a sii«* 
peiior order for the dweUing of savages, and filled with 
valuable articles, is supposed to be 400. 

Adjutant-General Newman rendered important ser- 
vices during the action, by his cool and deliberate courage. 
Mj aid. Major Crawford, discharged, with promptitude, 
the duties ot a brave and meritorious officer. Maj. Pace, 
who acted as field-aid, also distinguished himself ; both 
these gentlemen had their horses shot under them,- and 
the latter lost his. Dr. Williamson, hospital surgeon, and 
Dr. Ciopton, were prompt and attentive in discharge of 
their dutj towaids the wounded, during the action. 

Major Freeman, at the head of Irwin's troop of cavalry 
and part of Steele's, made a furious and successful charge 
upon a body of Indians, sabred several, and completely 
defeated them. Captain Thomas and his company, Capt. 
Adams, ai,d Lieut. Hendon's rifle companies, killed a great 
many Ir'dfans, and deserve particular praise. Captain 
Barton's company were in tlie hottest of the battle, and 
foupht like soldiers. Captain Myrick, Captain Little, 
Captain King, Captain Broadnax, Capt. Cleveland, Capt. 
Joseph T. Cunningham, and Captain Lee, whh their com- 

Eanies, distinguished themselves. Brigade-Major Shar- 
leford was of great service in brinjring the troops into 
action ; and Adjutant Broadnax, and Major Montgomery, 
who acted as Assistant-Adjutant, showed great activity 
and courage. Major Booth used his best endeavors in 
bringing his battalion to action, and Major Watson's bat- 
tallion acted with considerable spirit. Irwin's, Patterson's 
and Steele's troops of cavalry, whenever an opportunity 
presented, charged with success. Lieutenant Strong had 
his horse shot, and narrowly escaped ; and Quarter-mas- 
ter Tennal displayed the greatest heroism, and miracu- 
lously escaped, though badly wounded, after having his 
horse shot from under him. The topographical engineer 
was vigilant in his endeavors to render service. 

The troops deserve the highest praise for their forti- 
tude, in enduring hunger, cold, and fatig^ue, without a 
murmur, having marched a hundred and twenty miles, in 
seven days. 



165 

The friendly Indians lost several, killed and wounded ; 
the number not exactly known. Captain Barton, an ac- 
tive and intelligent officer, (the bearer of these dispatches,) 
can, more particularly, explain to your excellency, the 
conduct, movements, and operations of the army. 
I have the honor, &:c. 

JOHN FLOYD, B. Gen. 

In the above actions, there were 11 killed and 54 
wounded. — Brig. Gen. Floyd wounded severely, and Adj. 
Gen. Newman, slightly. 

LOSS OF FORT NIAGARA. 

Gop^ of a letter from Gen. M'-Chire, of the New-York State troops^ to 
the Secretary of War. 

H. Quarters, Buff aloe, Dec. 22, 1813. 

SIR— I regret to be under the necessity of announcing 
to you the mortifying intelligence of the loss of Fort Nia- 
gara. On the morning of the 19th inst. about 4 o'clock, 
the enemy crossed the river at the Five-mile Meadows, in 
great force — consisting of regulars and Indians, who made 
their way, undiscovered, to the garrison, which, from the 
most correct information I could collect, was completely 
surprized. Our men were nearly all asleep in their tents 
— the enemy rushed in, and commenced a most horrid 
slaughter ; such as escaped the fury of the first onset re- 
tired to the old mess-house, where they kept up a destruc- 
tive fire on the enemy, until a want of ammunition com- 
pelled them to surrender. Although our force was very 
inferior, and comparatively small indeed, I am induced to 
think that the disaster is not attributable to any want of 
troops, but to gross nes;lect in the commanding officer of 
the fort, Captain Leonard, in not preparing, being ready, 
and looking out for the expected attack. 

I have not been able to ascertain, correctly, the number 
of killed and wounded; about twenty regulars have es- 
caped out of the fort, some badly wounded. Lieut. Peck, 
of the 24th regiment, is killed, and it is said three others. 



166 

You will perceive, sir, bj the enclosed general orders, that 
I apprehended an attack, and made the necessary arrang-e- 
ments to meet it; but have reason to believe, I'rom inior- 
mation received by those who have made tlieir escape, 
that the commandant did not, in any respect, comply with 
those orders. 

On the same morning, a detachment under Major Ben- 
net, stationed at Lewistown Heights, was attacked by a 
party of savages ; but the Major, and his little corps, by 
making a desperate charge, effected their retreat, after 
being surrounded by several hundred, with the loss of six 
or eight, who doubtless were killed, among whom were 
two sons of Capt. Jones, Indian interpreter. The villages 
of Youngstown, Lewistown, Manchester, and the Indian 
Tuscarora village, were reduced to ashes ; and the inof- 
fensive inhabitants, who could not escape, were, without 
reojard to age or sex, inhumanly butchered by savages, 
headed by British officers, painUd. A Bjitish officer, 
who is taken prisoner, avows, that many small children 
"were murdered by their Indians. Major Mallory, who 
was stationed at Schlosser, with about 40 Canadian vo- 
lunteers, advanced to Lewistown Heights, and compelled 
the advanced guard of the enemy to fail back to the foot 
of the mountain ; the Major is a meritorious officer ; he 
fought the enemy two days, and contended ey^ry inch of 
ground to the Tautawanty creek. In these actions, Lieut. 
Lowe, 23d regiment. U. S. infantry, and 8 of the Canadian 
volunteers, were killed. 1 had, myself, three days pre- 
vious to the attack on the Niagara, left it with a view of 
providing for the defence of this place, Biack Rock, and 
the other villages on this frontier. I came here without 
troops, and have called out the miUtia of Genesee, Niaga-^ 
gara and Chatauque counties, en masse. 

I have the honor, &c. 

GEO. M'CLURE, Brig. Gen. Comg. 

Hon. J. Armstrong. 



167 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

JR. Quarter Sy Fort Niagara, Dec. 12, 1813. 

Capt. Leonard will, as soon as possible, have a propor- 
tion of hand grenades, in the different block-houses, and 
give directions to the officers of the infantry where they 
should be posted, with their men, in case of an attack ; — 
and, should they not be able to maintain the outworks, to 
repair the block and mess-houses ; and have every thing 
arranged in such a manner, as though he expected an im- 
mediate attack. Much is expected of Capt. Leonard, 
from his long experience and knowledge of duty ; and the 
General feels confident he will be well supported by Capt. 
Loomis, of the artillery, as well as the officers of infantry- 
By order of Gen. M'Clure, 

DONALD ERASER, Lieut. \5th Infantry, 
Vol. Aid-de-Camp. 



CAPTAIN LEONARD. 

Extract of a letter from Gen. JWClure, dated. 

Batavia, Dec. 25, 1813. 

" It is a notorious fact, that the night on which Fort 
Niagara was captured, Capt. Leonard left the fort about 
11 o'clock, P. M. I am assured that he has since given 
himself up to the enemy, and that he and his family are 
now on the Canadian side of the strait." 



BUFFALOE DESTROYED. 

From Major -General Hall, to Governor Tompkins, dated 

H. Q. Niaii:ara Frontier, Dec. 30, 1813. 
"7 o'clock, P. M. 
SIR — I have only time to acknowledge the receipt of 
your letter, of the 25th inst. and to add, that this frontier 
is wholly desolate. The British crossed over, supported 
by a strong party of Indians, at a little before day-light, 
this mornino;, near Black Rock : thev were met bv the mi- 



168 

litia, under my command, with spirit ; but overpower- 
ed by numbers and discipline of the enemy, the militia 
gave way, and fled on every side — every atteuipt to 
rally them was ineffectual. The enemy's purpose was 
obtained, and the flourishing village of Buffaloe laid in 
ruins. The Niagara frontier now lies open and naked 
to our enemies; — your judgment will direct you what 
is most proper in this emergency. I am exhausted 
with fatigue, and must defer particulars until to-mor- 
row — many valuable lives are lost. 
I have the honor, &c. 

A. HALL, Maj, Gen. 



ANOTHER VICTORY OVER THE CREEKS. 

Extract of a letter from Brig. Gen. Claiborne, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 
Fort Claiborne, East bank of Alabama, 85 miles above 
Fort Stoddart, January 1st, 1814. 

SIR — On the 1 3th ult. I marched a detachment from 
this post, with a view of destroying the towns of the 
inimical Creek Indians on the Alabama, above the 
mouth of Cahaba ; [here the General details the move- 
ments of his troops, and adds,] thirty of the enemy 
were killed ; and, judging from every appearance, ma- 
ny were wounded. The loss on our part was 1 corpo- 
ral killed ; one ensign, two sergeants, one corporal 
and two privates, wounded. We destroyed their town, 
(Eccancacha,) consisting of 200 houses, and one other 
town of 60 houses. I have the honor, &c. 

F. L. CLAIBORNE, B. Gen. Volunteers. 
His Ex. John Armstrong. 



GALLANT DEFENCE AT FOHT DEFIANCE. 

Copy of a letter from Brig. Gen. Floyd, to Maj. Gen. Pinkney, dated 

Camp Defiance, 48 miles west of ChatahoucheC; 

January 27, 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor to acquaint your excellency, 

that, this morning, at 20 minutes past 5 o'clock, a very 



169 

lar^e body of hostile Indians made a deperate attack 
upon the army under my command. They stole upon 
the centinels, fired upon them, and, with ^reat impetu- 
osity, rushed upon our lines. In 20 minutes the ac- 
tion became general, and our front, right and left flanks, 
were closely pressed; but the brave and gallant con- 
duct of the field and line officers, and the firmness of 
the men, repelled them at every point. 

The steady firmness, and incessant fire of Taptain 
Thomas' artillery, and Capt. Adams' riflemen, pre- 
served our front line ; both of these companies suffer- 
ed greatly. The enemy rushed within 30 yards of 
the artillery ; and Capt. Broadnax, who commanded 
one of the picket guards, maintained his post with great 
bravery, until the enemy gained his rear ; and then 
cut his way through them to the army. So soon as it 
became light enough to distinguish objects, I ordered 
Majors \\ atson's and Freeman's battalions to wlieel 
up, at right angles, with Majors Booth's and i leve- 
land's battalions ; the order for the charge was prompt- 
ly obeyed, and the enemy fled in every direction be- 
fore the bayonet. The signal was given for the charge 
of the cavalry, who pursued and sabred fifteen of the 
enemy ; who left 37 dead on the field. From the efiii- 
sion of blood, and the numberof head-dresses and war- 
clubs found, in various directions, their loss must have 
been considerable, independent of the woimded. 

I directed the friendly Indians, with Merriwether's 
and Ford's rifle companies, accompanied by Captain 
Hamilton's troop, to pursue them through Calibee 
swamp, where they were trailed by their blood, but 
succeeded in overtaking but one of their wounded. 

Col. Newman received three balls, in the commence- 
ment of the action, which deprived me of the services 
of that gallant and useful otficer. The Assistant Adj. 
Gen. Narden, w^as indefatigable in the discharge of his 
duty, and rendered important services ; his horse was 
wounded under him. The whole of the staff was prompt, 
and discharged their duty with courage and fidelity ; 
their vigilance, the intrepidity of the officers, and firra- 

Y 



170 

ness of the men, meet my approbation, and deserve the 
praise of their country. I have to rejyret tlie death of 
many of my brave fellows, who have found honorable 
graves, in the voluntary support of their eountiN. 

My aid-de-camp, in executing my orders, had his 
horse killed under him. Gen. Lee and Major Face, 
who acted as additional aids, rendered me essential ser- 
vices, with honor to themselves, and usefulness to the 
cause in which they have embarked. Four waggon 
and several other horses were killed, and two of the ar- 
tillery horses were wounded. While I deplore the 
losses sustained on this occasion, I have the consolation 
to know that the men, which I have the honor to com- 
mand, have done their duty. 

I, herewith, transmit you a list of the killed and 
wounded. 

1 have the honor, kc. 

JOHN FLOYD, Brig. Gen. 

Our loss, in the above action, was 17 whites, and 5 
friendly Indians, killed— and 132 whites, and 15 friend- 
ly Indians, wounded — total, killed and wounded, 169. 



PROCEEDINGS AGAINST THE CREEKS. 

Copy of a letter from Gen. Jackson, of the Tennessee Volunteers, 
to Gen. Pinckney, dated 

H. Q. Fort Strother, 29th Jan. 1814. 
SIR — I had the honor of informing you, in a letter 
of the 31st ult. forwarded by Mr. M'Candless, (express) 
of an excursion I contemplated making, still further in 
the enemy's country, with the new raised volunteers, 
from Tennessee. I had ordered those troops to form a 
junction with me, on the 10th instant ; but they did 
not arrive until the 14th. Their number, including 
officers, was about 800; and, on the 15th, I marched 
them across the river to graze their horses. On the 
next day I followed, with the remainder of our force — 
consisting of the artillery company, with one 6 pound- 



171 

er, one company of infantry, of 48 men, two compa- 
nies of spies, commanded by Captains Gorden and Rus- 
sel, of about 30 men each, and a company of volunteer 
ofricers, headed by Gen. Coffee, who had been abandon- 
ed by his men, and who still remained in the field, 
awaitinj^ the orders of the government — making my 
force, exclusive of Ind«ans, 930. 

The motives which influenced me to penetrate still 
further into the enemy's country, were many and ur- 
gent — the terjn of service, of the new raised volunteers, 
was short ; and a considerable part of it was expired — 
they were expensive to the government, and were full 
of ardor to mert the enemy. The ill effects of keep- 
ing soldiers of this description idle, and long stationa- 
ry, i had been made to feel but too sensibly already. 
Other causes concurred to jnake such a movement not 
only justifiable, but absolutely necessary. I had re- 
ceived a letter from Capt. iM'Alpin, of the 5th inst. who 
co'ii nanded at fort Armstrong In the absence of Col. 
Si.'odgrass, informing me that 14 or 15 town^ of the ene- 
my, situated on the waters of the Talapoosa, were 
about uniiing their forces, and attacking thilt place, 
whirh had bt-en left in a very feeble state of defence. 
You had, in your letter of the 24th ult. informed me 
thai Gen, Floyd was about to make a movement to the 
Taliapoose, near its junction with the Coosee; and, in 
the same letter, had recommended temporary excur- 
sions against such of the enemy's towns, or settlements, 
as might be within striking distance, as well to prevent 
my men from becoming discontented, as to harrass the 
enemy — your ideas corresponded exactly with my 
own ; and I was happy in the opportunity of keeping 
my men engaged, distressing the enemy, and, at the 
same time, making a diversion to facilitate the opera- 
tions of Gen. Floyd. 

Determined by these and other considerations, I took 
up the line of march, on the 17th inst; and, on the 
night of the 18th, encamped at the Talledega fort, 
where \ was joined by between 2 and 300 friendly In- 
dians ; 65 of which were Cherokees, the balance Creeks. 



172 

Here T received your letter of the 9th inst. stating, that 
Gen Floyd was expected to make a movement from 
Cowetau, the next day ; and that, in ten days thereaf- 
ter, he would establish a firm position at Tuckahatchee; 
and also a letter fro'.n Col. Snodi^rass, who had return- 
ed to fort Armstrong, informing me that an attack was 
intended to be soon made on that fort, by 900 of the 
enemy : if I could have hesitated betore, I could now^ 
hesitate no longer — I resolved to lose no time in meet- 
ing this force, which was understood to have been col- 
lected from i\ew Yorcau, Oakfuskie, and Ufauley 
towns, and were concentrated in a bend of the Talla- 
poose, near the mouih of a creek, called Emuckfau, 
and on an island below INew Yorcau. 

On the morning of the 20th, your letter of the 10th 
instant, foivvarded by Al'Candless, reached me, at the 
Hillabee creek ; and that night I encamped at Enoto- 
chapco, a small Hillabee village, about 12 miles from 
Emuckfau. Here I began to perceive, very plainly, 
how little knowledge my spes had of the country, < f 
the situation of the enemy, or of the distance 1 was 
from them. The insubordination of the new troops, 
and the want of skill in most of their officers, also be- 
came more and more apparent ; but their ardor to 
meet the enemy was not diminished — and I had a sure 
reliance upon the guards, an<i the company of old vo- 
lunteer officers, and upon the spies — in all 125. My 
wishes and my duty remained united ; and I was de- 
termined to effect, if possible, the objects for which the 
excursion had been undertaken. — On the rnorrsing ef 
the 21st I marched from Enotachopco, as direct as I 
could for the bend of the Tallapoose ; and about 2 
o'clock, P. M. my spies having discovered two of the 
enemy, pursued, but could not overtake them. In the 
evening I fell in with a large trail, which led to a new 
road, much beaten, and lately travelled. Knowing 
that I must have arrived within the neighborhood of a 
strong force, and it being late in the day, I determined 
to encamp, and reconnoitre the country in the night: 
I chose the best scite the country would admit, encamp- 



173 

ed in a hollow square, sent out my spies and pickets, 
doubled my centinels, and made the necessary arrani^e- 
ments for a niglil attack. About 10 o'clock at nii^ht, 
one of the pickets fired at three of the enemy, and kill- 
ed one — at 1 1 o'clock, the spies, whom I had sent out, 
returned with the information, that there was a large 
encampment of Indians, at the distance of about three 
miles; who, from their whooping and dancing, seemed 
to be apprized of our approach. One of these spies, 
(an Indian,) in whom I had great confidence, assured 
me that they were carrying off their women and chil- 
dren, and that the warriors would either make their es- 
cape, or attack me before day. Being prepared at all 
points, nothing remained to be done but to await their 
approach, if they meditated an attack ; or to be in rea- 
diness, if they did not, to pursue and attack them at day- 
light. While we were in this state of readiness, the 
enemy, about 6 o'clock in the morning, commenced a 
vigorous^ attack on my left flank, which was vigorously 
met ; ttie action continued to rage on my left flank, and 
on the left of my rear, for about half an hour The 
brave Gen. Coffee, with Col. Sittler, the Adj. General, 
and Col. Carroll, the Inspector General, the moment 
the firing commenced, mounted their horses and repair- 
ed to the line, encouraging and animating their men to 
the performance of their duty. So soon as it became 
light enough to pursue, the left wing having sustained 
the heat of the action, and being somewhat weakened, 
was reinforced by Capt. Ferrill's company of Infantry, 
and was ordered, and led on to the charge by General 
Coffee, who was well supported by Col Higgins and the 
Inspector General, and by all the officers and pri- 
vates who composed that line. The enemy were 
routed at every point ; and the friendly Indians joining 
in the pursuit, they were chased about two miles with 
considerable slaughter. The chase being over, I im- 
mediately detached Gen. Coffee, with 400 men, and all 
the Indian force, to burn their encampment ; but it was 
said, by some, to be fortified. I ordered him, in that 
event, not to attack it, until the artillery could be sent 



174 

forward to reduce it. On viewing the encampment, 
and its strength, the General thought it most prudent to 
return to my encampment, and guard the artillery 
thither ; the wisdom of this step was soon discovered ; 
in half an liour after his return to camp, a considera- 
ble force of the enemy made ils appearance on my 
riglit iiank, and commenced a brisk lire on a party of 
men, who had been on picket guard the night before, 
and were ihen in search of the Indians the> had tired 
upon, some of whom they believed had been killed. 
Gen. Coffee immediately requested me to let him take 
200 men, and turn their left flank — which I accordingly 
ordered ; but, through some mistake, which I did not 
then observe, not more than 54 followed him, among 
whom were the old volunteer officers. With these, 
however, he immediately commenced an attack on the 
left flank of the enemy, at which time 1 ordered 200 
of tlie friendly Indians to fall in upon the right flank 
of the enemy, and co-operate with the GeneiaJ. This 
order was promptly obeyed ; and, in the moment ol its 
execution, what 1 expected was realized. The enemy 
had intended the attack on the right as a feint ; and, 
expecting to direct all my attention thither, meant to 
attack me again, and with their main force, on my left 
flank, which they hoped to find weakened and in disor- 
der — they were disappointed. I had ordered the left 
flank to remain firm to its place ; and, the moment fhe 
alarm gun was heard in that quarter, I repaired thith- 
er, and ordered Capt. Ferrili, part of my reserve, to 
support it. The whole line met the enemy with asto- 
nishing intrepidity ; and, having given a few fires, they 
forthwith charged with great vigor ; the effect was im- 
mediate and inevitable — the enemy fled with precipita- 
tion, and were pursued to a considerable distance by 
the left flank, and the friendly Indians, with a galling 
and destructive fire. Col. Carrol, who ordered the 
charge, led on the pursuit ; and Col. Higgins and his re- 
giment, again distinguished themselves. In the mean 
time, Gen. Coffee was contending with a superior force 
of the enemy ; the Indians, who I had ordered to his 



175 

support, and who had set out for this purpose, hearino- the 
firiii^on the left, had returned to that quarter; and. when 
the enemy were routed, there entered into the chase. 
That bein;^ now over, I forthwith ordered Jim Fife, who 
was one of the principal commanders of the friendly 
Creeks, with one hundred of his warriors, to execute my 
first order. So soon as he reached Gen. Coffee, the 
charge was made, and the enemy routed ; they v> ere pur- 
sued about three miles, and 45 of them slain, Avho were 
found. Gen. Cofiee was wounded in the body, and his 
aid-de-camp, A. Donaldson, killed, together with three 
others. Having brought in and buried the dead, and 
dressed the w ounded, I ordered my camp to be fortifi- 
ed, to be the better prepared to repel any attack which 
might be made in the night, determined to commence a 
return march, to fort Strother, the next day ; many causes 
concurred to make such a measure necessary, as I had 
not set out prepared, or with a view to make a perma- 
nent establishment. I considered it worse than useless to 
advance, and destroy an empty encampment. I had, in- 
deed, hoped to have met the enemy there ; but, havino* 
met and beaten them a little sooner, I did not think it ne- 
cessary or prudent to proceed any further — not necessa- 
ry, because I had accomplished all I expected to effect, 
by marching to their encampment — and because, if it was 
proper to contend with, and weaken their forces still far- 
ther, this object would be more certainly attained by com- 
mencing a return, which, having to them the appearance 
of a retreat, would inspirit them to pursue me. Not pru- 
dent — because of the number of my wounded ; of the re- 
inforcements, from below, which the enemy mipht be ex- 
pected to receive ; of the starving condition of my horses, 
they having neither had cane nor corn for two days and 
nights ; of the scarcity of supplies for mv men, the Indians 
who joined me at Talledega having drav.n none, and be- 
ing wholly destitute; and because, if the enemy pursued 
me, as it was likely they would, the diversion in favor of 
Gen. Floyd would be the more complete and effectual — 
influenced by these considerations, I commenced my re- 
turn march at half after 10. on the 23d inst. and was for- 



m 

tunate enough to reach Eitotachopco before night, having 
passed, without interruption, a dangerous defile, occasion- 
ed by a hurricane. 1 again fortified my camp ; and, 
having another defile to pass in the morning, across a 
deep creek, and between two hills, which I had viewed 
with attention as I passed on, and where I expected I 
might be attacked, I determined to pass it at another point, 
and gave d.rtctions to my guide and fatigue-men accord- 
ingly. My expecration of an attack in the morning was 
increased by the signs of the night, and with it my cau- 
tion. Before I moved the wounded from the interior of 
my camp, I had my front and rear guards formed, as well 
as my right and left columns, and moved oif my centre in 
regular order, leading down a handsome ridge to Enota- 
chopco creek, at a point where it was clear of reed, ex- 
cept immediately on its margin. I had previously issued 
a general order, pointing out the manner in which the 
men were to be formed, in the event of an attack on the 
front or rear, or on the flanks ; and had particularly cau- 
tioned the officers to halt, and form accordingly, the instant 
word should be oriven. 

The front gua;d had crossed, with part of the flank co- 
lumns ; the wounded were over, and the artillery in the 
act of entering the creek, when an alarm gun was heard 
in the rear; I heard it without surprize — and even with 
pleasure, calculating with the utmost confidence on the 
firmness of my troops, from the manner in which I had 
seen them act on the 22d. I had placed Col. Carrol at 
the head of the centre column of the rear guard ; its right 
column was commanded by Col. Perkins, and its left by 
Col. Stump. Having chosen the ground, I expected there 
to have entirely cut olf the enemy, by wheeling the right 
and left columns on their pivot, re-crossing the creek 
above and below, and falling in upon their flanks and rear. 
But, to my astonishment and mortification, when the word 
was given by Col. Carrol, to halt, and form, and a few 
guns had been fired, I beheld the right and left columns 
of the rear guard precipitately give way ; this shameful 
retreat was disastrous in the extreme ; it drew along with 
it the greater part of the centre column, leaving not more 



177 

than 25 men, who, being formed by Col. Carrol, maintain- 
ed their ground as long as it was possible to maintain it; 
and it brought consternation and confusion into the army 
— a consternation not easily removed ; and a con- 
fusion which could not easily be restored to order. There 
was then left, to repulse the enemy, the few who remain- 
ed of the rear guard, the artillery company, and Captain 
Russell's company of spies ; — they, however, realized, and 
exceeded my highest expectations. Lieut Armstrong, 
who commanded the artillery company, in the absence of 
Capt. Deadrick, (conlined by sickness,) ordered them to 
form, and advance to the top of the hill, whilst he and a 
few others dragged up the six pounder; never was more 
bravery displayed than on this occasion : amidst the most 
galling fire from the enemy, more than ten times their 
number, they ascended the hill, and maintained their po- 
sition until their piece was hauled up ; when, having level- 
led it, they poured upon the enemy a fire of grape, re-load- 
ed and fired again — charged, and repulsed them. 

The most deliberate bravery was displayed by Constan- 
tine Perkins and Craven Jackson, of the artillery, acting 
as gunners : — in the hurry of the moment, in separating 
the gun from the limbers, the rammer and picker of the 
cannon were left tied to the limber ; no sooner was this 
discovered, than Jackson, amidst the galling fire of the 
enemy, pulled out the ramrod of his musquet, and used it 
as a picker, primed with a cartridge, and fired the cannon. 
Perkins having pulled off his bayonet, used his musquet 
as a rammer, drove down the cartridge ; and Jackson, 
using his former plan, again discharged her. The brave 
Lieut. Armstrong, just after the first fire of the cannon, 
with Captain Hamilton, of E. Tennessee, Bradford and 
M'Gavock, all f^ll ; the Lieutenant exclaiming, as he lay, 
*' my brave fellows, some of you may fall — but save the 
cannon." About this time, a number crossed the creek 
and entered into the chase. The brave Capt. Gordon, of 
the spies, who had rushed from the front, endeavored to 
turn the left flank of the enemy, in which he partially suc- 
ceeded ; and Col. Carrol, Col. Higgins, and Captains El- 
Hot and Pipkins, pursued the enemy for more than two 

Z 



178 

miles, who fled in consternation, throwing away their 
packs, and leaving 26 of their warriors dead on the field. 
I should do injustice to my feelings if I omitted to men- 
tion, that the venerable judge Cocke, at the age of ().% 
entered into the engagement, continued the pursuit of the 
enemy with youthful ardor, and saved the life of a fellow- 
soldier, by liilling his savage antagonist. 

In these several engagements, our loss was 20 killed, 
and 75 wounded — 4 of whom have since died. The loss 
of the enemy cannot be accurately ascertained — 189 of 
their warriors were found dead ; but this must fall con- 
siderably short of the real number killed — their wound- 
ed can only be guessed at. 

I have the honor, &c. 

ANDW. JACKSON, Moj. Gen, 



AFFAIR ON THE RIVER DE FRENCH. 

Copy of a letter from Col. H. Butler, to Gen. Harrison, dated 

Detroit, March 7th, 1814. 

DEAR SIR — By Lieut Shannon, of the 27th regiment 
U. S. infantry, I have the honor of informing you, that a 
detachment of the troops, under my command, led by 
Captain Holmes, of the 24th infantry, have obtained a sig- 
nal victory over the enemy. 

The affair took place on the 4th inst. about 100 miles 
from this place, on the river De French. Our force con- 
sisted of no more than 160 rangers and mounted infantry. 
The enemy, from their own acknowledgement, had about 
240. The fine light company of Royal Scots is totally 
destroyed ; they led the attack most gallantly, and their 
commander fell within ten paces of our front line. The 
li2;ht company of the 89th has also suffered severely ; one 
officer of that company fell ; one is a prisoner, and ano- 
ther is said to be badly wounded. In killed, wounded, 
and prisoners, the enemy lost about 84 ; whilst, on our 
part, there were but 4 killed, and 4 wounded. The great 
disparity, in the loss on each side, is to be attributed to 



179 

the very judicious position occupied by tapt. Holmes. 
who compelled the enemy to attack him at great disad- 
vantage — this, even more than his gallantry, merits the 
laurel. 

Capt. Holmes has just returned, and will furnish a de- 
tailed account of the expedition, which shall immediately 
be transmitted to you. 

Very respectfully, Sic. 

H. BUTLER, IJ. Col. cowg. Bttroit. 

The enemy's force, as stated by the prisoners, was 256 
men. — There was 100 head of cattle taken from the ene- 
my, intended for Long Point or Burhngton. 



EXPEDITION TO THE TALLAPOOSEE. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Jackson, to Maj. Gen. Pincknei/, dated 

On the Battle Ground, in the Bend of the Tallapoosee, 
28th March, i8!4. 

SIR — I feel peculiarly happy in being. able to commu- 
nicate to you the fortunate eventuation of my expedition 
to the Tallapoosee. I reached the bend, near Emuciau, 
(called, by the whites, the Horse-shoe,) about ten o'clock 
in the forenoon of yesterday, where I found the strength 
of the neighboring towns collected ; expecting our ap- 
proach, they had gathered in from Oakiuskee, Oakcha- 
ga. New Yauca, Hillibees, the Fish-pond, and Eufaulee 
towns, to the number, it is said, of 1000. It is difficult to 
to conceive a situation more eligible for defence, than they 
had chosen ; or one rendered more secure, by the skill 
with which they had erected their breast-work ; it was 
from 5 to 8 feet high, and extended across the point in 
such a direction as that a force, approaching it, would be 
exposed to a double fire, while they lay in perfect securi- 
ty behind ; a cannon, planted at one extremity, could have 
raked it to no advantao;e. 

Determining to exterminate them, I detached General 
Coffee, with the mounted men, and nearly the whole of 
the Indian force, early on the raorning of yesterday, to 



180 

cross the river, about two miles below their encampment, 
and to surround the bend in such a manner, as that 
none of them should escape, hy attempting to cross the 
river. With the infantry I proceeded slowly, and in or- 
der, along the point of land which led to the front o(" their 
breast-work; having planted my cannon (one 6 and one 
3 pounder,) on an eminence, at the distance of 150 to 200 
yards from it, I opened a very brisk fire, playing upon the 
enemy with the musquets and rities, whenever they show- 
ed themselves beyond it; this was kept up, with short in- 
terruptions, for about two hours, when a part of the In- 
dian force, and Captain Russell's and J^ieut. Bean's com- 
panies of spies, who had accompanied General Coffee, 
crossed over in canoes, to the extremity of the bend, and 
set fire to a few of the buildings which were there situa- 
ted ; they then advanced, with great gallantry, towards 
the breast-work, and commenced a spirited fire upon the 
enemy behind it. Finding that this force, notwithstand- 
ing the bravery they displayed, was wholly insufficient to 
dislodge them, and that Gen. Coffee had entirely secured 
the opposite bank of the river, I now determined to take 
their works by storm. The men, by whom this was to be 
effected, had been waiting with impatience to receive their 
order, and hailed it with acclamation. 

The spirit which animated them was a sure augury of 
the success which was to follow ; the history of warfare, 
I think, furnishes few instances of a more brilliant attack; 
the regulars, led on by their intrepid and skilful command- 
er. Col Williams, and by the gallant Major Montgomery, 
soon gained possession of the works, in the midst of a most 
tremendous fire from behind them ; and the militia, of the 
venerable Gen. Doherty's brigade, accompanied them in 
the charge, with a vivacity and firmness which would have 
done honor to regulars. The enemy were completely 
routed — 557 were left dead on the peninsula ; and a great 
number of them were killed by the horsemen, in attempt- 
ing to cross the river; it is believed that no more than 
10 had escaped. 

The fighting continued, with some severity, about five 
hours ; but we continued to destroy many of them, who 



181 

had concealed themselves under the banks of the river, 
until we were prevented by the night. This morning we 
killed 16 which had been concealed. We took 250 pri- 
soners, all women and children except 2 or 3 ; our loss is 
lu6 wounded and 26 killed. Major M'Intosh, (the Cowe- 
tau,) who joined my army with a part of his tribe, greatly 
distinguished himself. When I get an home's leisure I 
will send you a more detailed account. The power of the 
Creeks is, I think, forever broken. I send you a hasty 
sketch, taken by the eye, of the situation on which the 
enemy were encamped, and of the manner in which I ap- 
proached them. 

I have the honor to be, &;c. 

ANDREW JACKSON, 31aJor Gen. 
Major General Thomas Finckney^ U. S. army. 



AFFAIR AT LA COLLE MILL. 

Copy of a letter from Major General Wilkinson to the Secretary of 

War, dated 

Province of Lower Canada, Odell Town, 

March 31st, 1814. 

SIR — We have had an affair with the enemy, in which 
our troops have given him another test of firmness and 
valor. 

Pursuant to the designs communicated to you in my last, 
and to accomplish ^owr views, if in my power, I entered 
Canada yesterday morning, and was met by the enemy 
near this place about 1 1 o'clock, whom we forced at every 
point of attack on the route to La Colle, distant from 
hence one league, and from St. John's six. We reached 
the former post about three o'clock, and found there a 
strong corps in possession of a spacious lofty stone-mill, of 
which I had received some information. An eighteen 
pounder had been ordered forward to effect the destruc- 
tion of this building, but it broke down, and after being 
repaired, the only road of approach, through a deep forest, 
was reported to be impracticable to a gun of such weight. 
An opinion prevailed at the same time with the chief ert- 



182 

o-ineer, Major Totten, founded on intelligence previously 
received, and several of the best informed officers, that an 
iron twelve vt^ould suffice to make a breach ; but after a 
fair and tedious experiment, at three hundred yards dis- 
tance only, it was discovered our battery could make no 
impression. 

Brigadier Generals Smith and Bissell covered our guns, 
and Brigadier General Macomb, with a select corps, form- 
ed the reserve. The enemy had been reported, from a 
source considered strictly confidential, to two thousand 
j&ve hundred strong, and his first attack of my right favor- 
ed the report from the use he made of Congreve rockets, 
and other indications of deliberate preparation; the corps, 
therefore, were held in high order to receive his combined 
attack. Yet believing in the efficacy of our battery, dis- 
positions had been made to intercept the enemy should he 
evacuate the post, and to give it the utmost effect, we were 
obliged to take ground near the margin of the field which 
encompassed the mill. During the cannonade, which was 
returned with vivacity by the enemy's gallies, (I presume,) 
several sorties and desparate charges were made from the 
mill upon our battery, which were repulsed with incredi- 
ble coolness by the covering corps, at the expense of some 
blood and some lives on both sides : it is reported to me 
that in the last charge a Captain of grenadiers and fifteen 
men fell together, but I cannot vouch for tJie fact. Find- 
ing all our attempts to miike a breach unsuccessful, I with- 
drew the battery, called in my detachments, and, having 
removed our dead and wounded and every thing else, fell 
back to this place about six o'clock. 

Where a military corps appears to be universally ani- 
mated by the same sensibilities, where the only competi- 
tion is for danger and glory, individual distinctions seem 
improper except in extraordinary cases — such as the con- 
duct of the officers who commanded our battery yester- 
day. Captain M'Pherson, of the light artillery, (my mili- 
tary secretary,) impelled by the noble spirit which marks 
his whole career, asked permission to take part in the 
operations of the day with his proper arm ; he was in- 
dulo"ed, and being first for command, took charge of the 



183 

pieces which followed the advanceand formed our battery, 
in which he was seconded by Lieutenants Larrabee and 
Sheldon. On opening his fire he seemed inclined to the 
opinion he could make an impression on the work, but he 
soon received a wound under the chin, which he tied up 
with his handkerchief, and continued at his piece until a 
second shot, which broke his thigh, brought him to the 
earth. Larrabee had kept his station until shot through 
the lungs, and Sheldon kept up the fire until ordered to 
retire. The conduct of these gentlemen has, from the na- 
ture of their duties, been so conspicuously gallant as to at- 
tract the admiration of their brethren in arms, and should, 
I humbly conceive, be distinguished by the executive. 

I have sent forward my wounded who can bear the 
movement to Plattsburg, or Burlington, and those who 
cannot will be provided for at Champlain. 

I would hold this position until I receive further orders 
were it not for the difficulty of transporting our provisions, 
and the impossibility to cover the troops ; but 1 shall not 
retire further than Champlain, which will place us twenty- 
five miles from St. John's, and forty-two from Montreal. 

I cannot close this letter without confessing my obliga- 
tions to my general and field officers, and to my general 
staff of every grade, for the able and prompt support I 
received from them. So small an affair does not merit so 
tedious a detail ; but it warrants the remark that it will 
produce a degree of self confidence, of reciprocal trust, of 
harmony and friendly attachments in this corps highly be- 
neficial to the service. It is a lesson of command to tlu^ 
officers, and of obedience to the soldier, worth a whoh- 
year's drill of empty parades. 

The returns of killed and wounded have not yet been 
furnished, but they will not exceed 80 or 90, including a 
captain and 4 subalterns, and this shall be forwarded to- 
morrow or next day. For the information of their friends 
you have at foot the names of the wounded officers. 

With great respect, &c. JAMES WILKINSON. 
The Hon. Stcreiary of War. 

Captain M'Pherson, Lieutenants Larrabee, Green, Par- 
ker, and Kerr, wounded. 



184 
GENERAL ORDER, 

Issued hy General Wilkinson^ the morning ujier the af- 
fair at La Colle Mill. 

H. Q. Odell Town, Province of L. Canada, 
March 31st. 1814. 

The affair of yesterday is honorable to the troops, and 
gives them a title to the thanks of the General, and their 
country. The constancy and courage, exhibited under a 
tedious and galling fire of the enemy, were exemplary, and 
would have done credit to the oldest troops in the world. 
Where every officer and every man evinces the same firm- 
ness and intrepidity, the General feels that it would be in- 
vidious to particularize. The advance, under Col. Clark 
and Major Forsyth, the corps under Brig. Generals Smith 
and Bissel, beat the enemy at every point of attack, and 
repulsed several desperate charges on our artillery ; and 
the select corps, under Brig. Gen. Macomb, who were 
panting for the combat, if there had been occasion for iheir 
services, would have displayed equal valor. Every man 
and officer, and every member of the General Staff, mani- 
fested the utmost promptitude and decision. The con- 
duct of Capt. M'Pherson and his seconds. Lieutenants 
Larrabee and Sheldon, who commanded the battery, was 
so conspicuously gallant, that the army will excuse the 
general for designating them. The first kept his post un- 
til brought to the ground by a second shot ; the second 
until he was grievously wounded : and the third behaved 
with the utmost intrepidity, and maintained his ground un- 
til ordered to bring out the pieces. 

Let the meritorious dead be collected, and buried, with 
the honors of war, in the same grave — let the wounded 
be cherished with the utmost tenderness, and removed to 
the hospitals in the rear; and let the troops be immedi- 
ately completed to sixty rounds of ammunition, and held 
perfectly ready to meet the enemy, should he venture to 
advance. 



185 
CAPTURE OF THE EPERVIER. 

Copy of a letter from Lieutenant Nicholson, to the Secretary ofiht, 

Navy, dated 

Savannah, May Isf. 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor of informing you of my arrival 
here, in late his B. M. brig Epervier, of eighteen 32 prs. 
carronades, Capt. Wa'es. captured by the sloop Peacock, 
on Friday morning the 29th, off Cape Carnaveral, after 
an action of 45 minutes, in which time she was much cut 
up in hull, spars, rigging and sails, with upwards of five 
feet water in her hold, having the advantage of the wea- 
ther-gage. 

She has lost eight killed, and fifteen wounded — among 
the latter her first Lieutenant, who has lost his arm ; I am 
happy to say, the Peacock received no material injury — 
her fore-yard, and two men, slightly wounded ; she re- 
ceived not one shot in her hull. The brig had upward?? 
of 100,000 dollars on board. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

JOHN B. NICHOLSON. 

Hon. W. Jones, Sec. Navy. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT. 

E:ztract of letters from Captain Warrington to the Secretary of 
the Navy. 

V. S. Sloop Peacock, at Sea, lat. 27, 47, long. 80, 9, 
29th April, 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform you, that we have this 
morning captured, after an action of 42 minutes, his ma- 
jesty's brig Epervier, rating and mounting eighteen 32lb. 
carronades, with 128 men, of whom 8 were killed and 13 
wounded, (according to the best information we could ob- 
tain.) Among the latter is her 1st Lieut, who has lost an 
arm, and received a severe splinter wound on the hip.-^ 
Not a man in the Peacock was killed, and only two wound- 
ed ; neither dangerously so. The fate of the Eperviet 
would have been determined in much less time, but f»r 

A a 



186 

tlie circumstance of our fore-yard being totally disabled 
hy two round shot in the starboard quarter from her first 
broadside, which entirely deprived us of the use of our 
fore and fore-top sails, and compelled us to keep the ship 
large throughout the remainder of the action. This, with 
a few top-mast and top-gallant back stays cut away, a few 
shot through our sails, is the only injury tlie Peacock has 
sustained. Not a round shot touched our hull ; our masts 
and spars are as sound as ever. When the enemy struck 
lie had five feet water in his hold, his maintop-mast was 
over the side, his main-boom shot avv'ay, his foremast cut 
nearly in two and tottering, his fore rigging and stays shot 
av,'ay, his bowsjjrit badly wounded, and 45 shot holes in 
his hull, 20 of which were within a foot of his water line. 
By great exertion we got her in sailing order just as the 
dark came on. 

" In fifteen minutes after the enemy struck, the Peacock 
was ready for another action, in every respect but her 
fore-yard, which was sent down, fished, and had the fore- 
sail set again in 45 minutes — such was the spirit and activi- 
ty of our gallant crew. The Epervier had under her con- 
voy an English hermaphrodite biig, a Russian and a Spa- 
nish ship, which all hauled their wind and stood to the 
E. N. E. [ had determined upon pursuing the former, but 
found that it would not answer to leave our prize in her 
then crippled state, and the more particularly so, as we 
found she had Si 20,000 in specie., which we soon transfer- 
red to this sloop." 

"To the unwearied and indelatigable attention of Lieu- 
tenant Nicholson, (1st,) in organizing and training the 
crew, the success of this action is in a great measure to 
be attributed. I have confided greatly in him, and have 
never found my confidence misplaced. For judgment, 
coolness, and decision in times of difficulty, few can sur- 
pass him. This is the second action in which he has been 
en2:aj2;ed this war, and in both he has been successful; his 
greatest pride is to earn a commander's commission by 
lighting for, instead of heiring it. 

From Lieutenant Henly, (2d) and Lieutenant Voorhees, 
(acting 3d, who has been also twice successfully engaged,) I 



187 

received every assistance that zeal, ardor, and experience 
could afford ; the fire from their divisions was terrible, 
and directed with the greatest precision and coolness. In 
sailing-master Percival, wiiose great wish and pride it is 
to obtain a lieutenant's commission, and whose nnremittino- 
and constant attention to duty, added to his professional 
knowledge, entitle him to it in my opinion, I found an able » 
as well as willing assistant; he handled the ship as if he 
had been working her into a roadstead. Mr. David Cole, 
acting carpenter, I have also found such an able and 
valuable man in hss occupation that I must request, in the 
most earnest manner, that he may receive a warrant; for 

I feel confident that to his uncommon exertion we, in a 
great measure, owe the getting our prize into port. From 

II A. M. until G P. M. he was over her side stoppinir shot 
holes, on a grating ; and when the ordmary resources. 
failed of success, his skill soon supplied him with edicient 
ones. Mr. Philip Myers, master's mate, has also conduct- 
ed himself in such a manner as to warrant my recommen- 
dation of him as a master ; he is a seaman, navigator, and 
officer — his family in New- York is respected, and he would 
prove an acquisition to the service. My clerk, Mr. John 
S. Townsend, is anxious to obtain through my means a 
midshipman's warrant, and has taken pains to qualify him- 
self for it by volunteering, and constantly performing a 
midshipman's duty — indeed I have but little use for a 
clerk, and he is as great a proficient as any of the yoiino- 
midshipmen, the whole of whom behaved in a manner that 
was pleasing to me, and must be gratifying to you, as it 
gives an earnest of what they will make in time ; three 
only have been to sea before, and one only in a man of 
war, yet were they as much at home and as much dispos- 
ed to exert themselves as any officer in the ship. Lieu- 
tenant Nicholson speaks in high terms of the conduct of 
Messrs. G reeves and Rodgers, (midshipmen) who were 
in the prize with him." 

I have the honor, (fee. 

L. WARRINGTON. 
Ho7i, W. Jones^ Sec. Navy. 



188 
AFFAIR AT OSWEGO. 

Oopy ef a letter from Maj. General Brown, to the Sccjciery ^' 
War, dated 

H. Q. Sacket's Harbor, May 12, 1814. 

SIR — Enclosed is an abstract from the report of Lieut. 
Col. Mitchell, of the affair at Oswego. Being well satis- 
fied with the manner in which the Colonel executed my or- 
ders, and with the evidence given of steady discipline, and 
gallant conduct, on tho part of the troops, I have noticed 
them in the general order, a copy of which is enclosed. 

The enemy's object was the naval and military stores 
deposited at the falls, 13 miles in rear of the fort — these 
were protected. The stores, at the fort and village, were 
not important. 

I am, &;c. 

JACOB BROWN, Maj. Gen. 



COL. MITCHELL'S REPORT. 

I informed you of my arrival at fort Oswego, on the 
30th lilt. This post being but occasionally, and not 
recently occupied by regular troops, was in a bad state 
of defence. Of cannon, we had but five old guns, three 
of which had lost their trunnions ; what could be done, 
in the way of repair, was effected ; new platforms were 
laid ; the gun-carriages put in order, and decayed 
pickets replaced. On the 5th inst. the British naval 
force, consisting of 4 large ships, three brigs, and a 
number of gun, and other boats, were descried at reval- 
lie-beating, about 7 miles from the fort. Information 
was immediately given to Capt. Woolsey, of the navy, 
(who was at Oswego village,} and to the neighboring 
militia. It being uncertain on what side of the river 
tbe • n^my would land ; and my force (290 effectives,) 
bein-j; too small to bear division, I ordered the tents, in 
siMre, to be pitched on the village side, while I occu- 
pied the other with my whole force; it is probable that 
this artifice had its effect, and determined the enemy to 



189 

attack where, from appearances, they expected tlie leasl 
opposition. About 1 o'clock the fleet approached — 
filleen boats, large, and crowded with troops, at a giv- 
en signal, moved slowly to the shore ; these were pre- 
ceded by gun-boats, sent to rake the woods, and cover 
the landini^, while the larger vessels opened a fire upon 
the fort. Capt. Boyle and Lieut. Legate, (so soon as 
the debarking boats got within range of our shot,) open- 
ed upon them a very successful tire from the shore- 
battery, and compelled them to retire ; they at length 
returned to the ships, and the whole stood otf from the 
shore for better anchorage. One of the enemy's boats, 
which had been deserted, was taken up by us, and 
some others by the militia ; the first mentioned was 60 
feet long, carried 36 oars and 3 sails, and could accom- 
modate 150 m^eu. She had received a ball through 
her bow, and was nearly filled with water. 

Piquet guards were stationed at different points, and 
v;e tay on our arms all night. 

At day-break, on the 6th, the fleet appeared, bear- 
ing up under easy sail. The Wolfe, &c. took a posi- 
tion directly against the fort and batteries, and for three 
hours kept up a heavy fire of grape, &c. Finding that 
the enemy had effected a landing, I withdrew my small 
disposable force into the rear of the fort, and with two 
companies, (Romayne's and Melvin's,) met their ad- 
vancing columns, while the other companies engaged 
the flanks of the enemy. Lieut. Pearce, of the navy, 
and some seamen, joined in the attack, and fought with 
their characteristic bravery. We maintained ourground 
about 30 minutes, and as long as consisted with my 
further duty of defending the public stores deposited 
at the falls, which, no doubt, formed the principal ob- 
ject of the expedition, on the part of the enemy. Nor 
was this movement made precipitately : I halted with- 
in four hundred yards of the fort ; Capt. Romayne's 
company formed the rear guard ; and, remaining with 
it, I marched to this place in good order, destroying the 
bridges in my rear. 1 he enemy landed 600 of De 
Watteville's regiment, 600 marines, two companies of 
the Glengary corps, and 350 seamen. 



19(i) 

Geii. Drumnioiid and Com. Yeo were the laud and 
naval commanders; ihey burned the old barracks, and 
evacuated the fort about 3 o'clock in the mornino^ of 
the 7tb. Our loss, in killed, is 6 — wounded, 38 — miss- 
ing, 25 — total, 69. The enemy's loss is mucli greater. 
Deserters, and citizens of oiu'^ (taken prisoners, and af- 
terwards released,) state their killed at 64, and wound- 
ed in proportion. I cannot close this dispatch without 
speaking of the dead and the living of my detachment : 
Lieut. Blaney, a young man of much promise, w as un- 
fortunately killed ; his conduct, in the action, was high- 
ly meritorious. Capt. Boyle and Lieut. Legate merit 
my highest approbation ; and, indeed, I want language 
to express my admiration of their gallant conduct. 'The 
subalterns, iVl'Comb, Ansart, Ring, Robb, Earle, 
M'Clintock, and Newkirk, performed well their seve- 
ral parts. 

It would be injustice, were I not to acknowledge and 
report the zeal, and patriotism, evinced by the militia, 
who arrived at a short notice, and were anxious to be 
useful. 

I have the honor, &c. 

J. MITCHELL, Lieut. Col 



GENERAL ORDERS. 

Major-General Brown has the satisfaction of announ- 
cing, to the troops of his division, that the detachment, 
under the command of Lieut. Col. Mitchell, of the 
corps of artillery, have, by their gallant, and highly 
military conduct, on the 5th and 6th inst. gained a name 
in arms, worthy the nation they serve, and the cause 
Ihey support. For nearly two days they maintained 
an unequal contest, against ten times their own num- 
ber, and but yielded their post, when the interest of 
their country made that measure necessary. The com- 
panies composing this gallantdetachment, were Boyle's, 
Komayne's, M'lntire's, and Pierce's, of tiie heavy ar- 
tillery, Melvin's, of the light artillery, and a few sea- 



]9l 

men, under the command of Lieut. Peaice, of the navy 
— in all, less than 300 men. The enemy's force, by 
land and water, exceeded three thousand. 



AFFAIR AT SANDY CREEK. 

Extract of a letter from Bris;. General Gaines, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

ISackcfs Harbor, 3Iay 31, 1814. 

I have the honor to transmit, herewith, Major Ap- 
pling's report of the gallant affair, which took place 
yesterday morning, between a detachment of the 1st 
rifle regiment, and Oneida Indians under his command, 
and a detachment from the British fleet, consisting of 
sailors and marines, commanded by Capt. Popham, of 
the royal navy. 

Major Appling had been ordered to co-operate with 
Capt. Woolsey, of the navy, in escorting the cannon 
and naval stores from Oswego, destined for the fleet 
here, on board of a flotilla of barges; and, after hav- 
ing gotten safely into Sandy Creek, 3 6 miles S. W. of 
this place, they were pursued, up the creek, by the 
enemy's force, which they met, and beat, and took, 
after an action of 10 minutes, without any other loss, 
on oiu' part, than one rifleman woimded. 



MAJOR APPLING'S REPORT. 

Copy of a letter from Major Jppling, to Brig. Gen. Gaines, dated 

Sandy Creek, May 30, 1814. 
SIR — Presuming that you have already been uiade 
acquainted with the result of the aflliir of this day, I 
consider it necessary only to furnish you with the re- 
turn of the killed, wounded, and prisoners, on the part 
of the enemy, which is as follows: 133 prisoners, sail- 
ors and marines — wounded 28 ditto — killed 13 ditto, 
and 1 Midshipman, with two Post-Captains, four Lieu- 
tenants of the navy, prisoners ; and two Lieutenants of 



192 

iiiarines dangerously wounded, and prisoners. The 
dead will receive all the honors due to unfortunate sol- 
diers — the wounded remain at this place, waiting the 
arrival of medical aid from the Harbor; the prisoners 
have been marched into the country, and to-morrow 
they will proceed for the Harbor. The enemy's boats 
also fell into my hands, consisting of two gun-boats and 
five barges, some of which carried howitzers. Of i 20 
men, and a few Indians, my loss does not exceed one 
man, of the rifle corps, wounded. 

I cannot sufficiently extol the conduct of the officers 
who served under me — who were Lieutenants M'! ntosh, 
Calhoun, Macfarland, Armstrong and Sinilh, and En- 
sign Austin. 

I have the honor, kc. 

D. APPLING. 

Srig. Gen. Gaines. 

COIVI. BARNEY'S FLOTILLA. 

Copy of a letter from Commodore Barney, to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

Sunday, 2QthJune, 1814—10, A. 31. 

SIR — This morning, at 4, a combined attack of the 
artillery, marine corps, and flotilla, was made upon the 
enemy's two frigates, at the mouth of the creek ; after 
two hours engagement, they got under way, and made 
sail down the river ; they are now warping round Point- 
Patience, and I am moving up the Patuxent, with my 
flotilla. My loss is acting Midshipman Asquith killed, 
and ten others, killed and wounded — [3 killed, and 8 
wounded.] 

Mr. Blake, the bearer of this, was a volunteer in my 
If^Yge — he will give you every other information. 
With respect, kc. 

JOSHUA BARNEY. 
Hon. }V. Jones, Sec. Navy. 



193 
PROCEEDINGS ON LAKE ONTARIO. 

Gopy of a Utter from Commodore Chauncey, to the Secretary of tlie 
Navy, dated 

U. S. Ship Superior, Sacket's Harbor, June CO, 1814. 

SIR — Knowing that the enemy was constantly re- 
ceiving naval and military stores at Kingston, by the 
St. Lawrence, I thought it might be practicable to sur- 
prize and capture a brigade of boats, with stores on 
board, and either destroy or bring them off; lor this 
purpose, 1 directed Lieutenant Gregory to take three 
gigs, with only their crew, and one settee in each boat, 
and proceed down the St Lawrence — secrete himself 
on some of the islands, and watch a favorable opportu- 
nity to surprise a brigade of loaded boats, and either 
bring them off or destroy them, as circumstances would 
point out. 

Lieut. Gregory left here, with his party, on the even- 
ing of the 15th inst. and proceeded to the "'J'housand 
Islands," where he hauled his boats on shore, and con- 
cealed them — saw two brigades of boats pass ; one up 
the river with troops, of course too strong for our lit- 
tle party ; the other down the river empty, and not 
worth taking. 

Lieut. Gregory found the enemy had gun-boats sta- 
tioned between Kingston and Prescott, within about six 
miles of each other ; and that they had a telegraph, 
and look out, in almost every high island, so that they 
convey intelligence with great expedition. Yesterday- 
morning, between 9 and 10 o'clock, Lieut. Gregory, 
finding himself discovered, and a gun-boat close to him, 
he instantly formed the bold design to board her, which 
he did, and carried her without losing a man ; one of 
the enemy was badly wounded. 

She proved to be the fine gun-boat Black-snake, or 
No. 9 — mounted an 18 pounder, and manned with 18 
men, chiefly royal marines, (a list of which is enclos- 
ed.) Lieut. Gregory manned his prize and proceeded 
up the St. Lawrence; but was soon discovered and pur- 
sued by a very large gun-boat, mounting 2 heavy guns, 

B b 



191 

and rowed witli upwards of 40 oars, vviiicli oveihauled 
him fast ; he kept j)ossession of his prize until the ene- 
my threw their shot over him — he then, very reluctant- 
ly, (but I think properly,) took all his prisoners out, 
and scuttled the gun-boat, which sunk instantly, and es- 
caped the enemy, aUhoujjh so heavily loaded, Lieut. 
Gregory arrived safe this morning, Avith all his pri- 
soners. 

I have the honor, «fec. 

ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
Hon. W. Joncsy Sec. Navy. 



CxVPT. PORTER'S CRUISE. 

Copy of a letter from Capt. Porter, to the Secretary of the Navy^ dated 

Essex Junior, July 3d, 1814 — At Sea. 

SIR — I have done myself the honor to address you, 
repeatedly, since 1 left the Delaware ; but have scarce- 
ly a hope, that one of my letters have reached you — 
therefore, consider it necessary, to give you a brief 
history of my proceedings since that period. 

I sailed from the Delaware, on the 27th Oct. 1812, 
and repaired, with all diligence, (agreeably to instruc- 
tions from Com. Bainbridge,) to Port Praya, Fernan- 
do de Noronho, and Cape Frio, and arrived at each 
place on the day appointed to meet him. On my pas- 
sage, from Port Praya to Fernando de Noronho, I cap- 
tured his B. M. packet Nocton ; and, after taking out 
about eleven thousand pounds sterling, in specie, sent 
her, under command of Lieut. Finch, for America. I 
cruised off Rio de Janeiro, and about Cape Frio, until 
the 12th of January, 1813, hearing frequently of the 
commodore, by vessels from Bahia ; I here captured but 
one schooner, with hides and tallowy and sent her into 
Rio. The Montague (Admiral's ship) being in pur- 
suit of me, my provisions now getting short, and find- 
ing it necessary now to look out for a supply, to ena- 
ble me to meet the Commodore by the 1st of April, of!' 



195 

Si. Helena, I proceeded to the island of St. Catharine's, 
(the last place of rendezvous on the coast of Brazil,) as 
the most likely to supply my wants, and, at the same 
time, aflbrd me that secrecy necessary to enable me to 
elude the British ships of war, on the coast, and expect- 
ed there — I here could procure only wood, water and 
rum, and a few bags of Hour; and hearing of the Com- 
modore's action with the Java, the capture of the Hor- 
net, by the Montague, and of a considerable augmen- 
talion of the Biitish force, on the coast, and of several 
being in pursuit of me, I found it necessary to get to 
sea as soon as possible. I now, agreeab-ly to the Com- 
modore's plan, stretched to the southward, scouring the 
coast as far as Uio de la Plata. I heard that Buejios 
Ayres was in a state of starvation, and could not supply 
our wants, and that the government of Monteviedo was 
very inimical to us. I'he Commodore's instructions, 
now, left it completely discretionary with me, what 
course to pursue ; and I determined on following that 
which had not only met his approbation, but the appro- 
bation of the then Secretary of the Navy. I accord- 
ingly shaped my course for the Pacific ; and, after suf- 
fering greatly, from short allov/ance of provisions, and 
heavy gales otf Cape Horn, (for which my ship and 
men were illy provided) I arrived at Valparaiso on the 
14th March, 1813 ; I here took in as much jerked beef, 
and other provisions, as my ship would conveniently 
stow, and ran down the coast of Ctiili and Peru — in this 
track I fell in with a Peruvian corsair, wjiich had on 
board 24 Americans, (as prisoners,) the crews of two 
whale-ships, Avhich she had taken on the coast of Chili. 
The Captain informed me, that, as the allies of Great 
Britain, they would capture all they should meet with, 
in expectation of a war betw^een Spain and the United 
States. I consequently threw all his giuis and ammu- 
nition into the sea, liberated the Americans, wrote a 
respectful letter to the Vice-Roy, explaining the cause 
of my proceedings, which I delivered to her Captain — 
I then proceeded for Lima, and le-captmed one of the 
vessels, as she was entering the port ; from thence I 



196 

proceeded for the Gallapagos islands, where I cruised 
from the 17th of April until the 3d of October, 1813, 
during which time I touched only once on the coast 
of America, which was for the purpose of procuring a 
supply of fresh water, as none is to be found among 
those islands, which are, perhaps, the most barren and 
desolate of any known. While anjong this groupe, I 
captured the following British ships, employed chiefly 
in the spermaceti whale fishery, viz. Letters of Marque 
Montezuma, 270 tons, 21 men, 2 guns ; Policy, 175 tons, 
26 men, 10 guns, pierced for 18 ; Georgiana, 280 tons, 
25 men, 6 guns, pierced for 18; Greenwich, 338 tons, 
25 men, 10 guns, pierced for 20 ; Atlantic, 355 tons, 
21 men, 8 guns, pierced for 20 ; Rose, 220 tons, 21 men, 
8 guns, pierced for 20 ; Hector, 270 tons, 25 men, 1 1 
guns, pierced for 20 ; Catharine, 270 tons, 29 men, 8 
guns, pierced for 18 ; Seringapatam, 357 tons, 31 men, 
14 guns, pierced for 26; Charlton, 274 tons, 21 men, 
10 guns, pierced for 18 ; New-Zealander, 259 tons, 23 
men, 8 guns, pierced for 18 ; Sir A. Hammond, 301 
tons, 31 men, 12 guns, pierced for 18 — making a tolal 
of 3465 tons, 302 men, and 107 guns. As some of those 
ships were captured by boats, and others by prizes, my 
officers and men had several opportunities of shewing 
their gallantry. 

The Rose and Charlton were given up to the prison- 
ers. The Hector, Catharine, and Montezuma, I sent to 
Valparaiso, where they were laid up. The Policy, 
Georgiana, and New-Zealander, I sent for America. 
The Greenwich I kept as a store-ship, to contain the 
stores of my other prizes, necessary for us; and the 
Atlantic, now called the Essex .Junior, I equipped with 
20 guns, and gave command of her to Lieut. Downs. 
Lieut. Downs had convoyed the prizes to Valparai- 
so, and on his return brought me letters, informing me 
that a squadron, under the command of Commodore 
James Hillyar, consisting of the frigate Phoebe, of 36 
guns, the Racoon and Cherub, sloops of war, and a 
store-ship, of 20 guns, had sailed on the 6th of July, for 
this sea. The Racoon and Cherub had been seeking 



197 

me, for some time, on the coast of Brazil ; and, on their 
return from their cruise, joined the squadron sent in search 
of me to the Pacific. My ship, as it may be supposed, 
after being near a year at sea, required some repairs, to 
put her in a state to meet them ; which 1 determined to 
do, and bring them to action, if I could meet them on near- 
ly equal terms. I proceeded, now, in company with the 
remainder of my prizes, to the island of Nooaheevah, or 
Madison's Island, lying in the Washington groupe, disco- 
vered by Captain Ingraham, of Boston ; here 1 caulked, 
and completely overhauled my ship ; made for her a new 
set of water-casks, her old ones being entirely decayed; 
and took on board, from my prizes, provisions and stores 
for upwards of 4 months, and sailed for the coast of Chili, 
on the 12th December, 1813. Previous to sailing, I se- 
cured the Serino;apatam, Greenwich, and Sir A. Ham- 
mond, under the guns of a battery, which I erected for 
their protection — (after taking possession of this fine 
island for the U. States, and estabh'shing the most friendly 
intercourse with the natives,) — I left them under the 
charge of Lieut. Gamble, of the marines, with 21 men, 
with orders to repair to Valparaiso, after a certain period. 

I arrived on the coast of Chili, on the 12th of January, 
1814 — looked into Conception and Valparaiso; found, at 
both places, only 3 English vessels, and learned that the 
squadron, which sailed from Rio de Janeiro for that sea, 
had not been heard of since their departure, and were 
supposed to be lost, in endeavoring to double Cape Horn. 

I had completely broken up the British navigation in 
the Pacific ; the vessels which had not been captured by 
me, were laid up, and dare not venture out. I had afford- 
ed the most ample protection to our own vessels, which 
were, on my arrival, very numerous, and unprotected. — - 
The valuable whale fishery there, is entirely destroyed ; 
and the actual injury we have done them, may be estima- 
ted at two and a half millions of dollars, independent of 
the expence of vessels in search of me. They have tur- 
nished me amply with sails, cordage, cables, anchors, pro- 
visions, medicines, and stores of every description ; and 
the slops, on board them, have furnished cloathing for the 



198 

seamen. We had, in fact, lived on the enemy, since I had 
been in that sea ; every prize having proved a well found 
store-ship for me, I had not yet been under the necessity 
of drawing bills on the department for any object, and had 
been enabled to make considerable advances to my offi- 
cers and crew, on account of pay. 

I had done all the injury, that could be done the Bri- 
tish commerce in the Pacilic, and still hoped to signalize 
my cruise by something more splendid, before leaving that 
sea. I thought it not improbable that Commodore Hill- 
yar might have kept his arrival a secret ; and believing 
that he would seek me at Valparaiso, as the most likely 
place to find me, I therefore determined to cruise about 
that place ; and, should I fail of meeting him, hoped to 
be compensated by the capture of some merchant ships, 
said to be expected from England. 

The Phoebe, agreeably to my expectation, came to seek 
me at Valparaiso, where I was anchored Avith the Essex, 
my armed prize, the Essex Junior, under the command of 
Lieut. Downs, on the look-out, off the Harbor; hut, con- 
trary to the course I thought he would pursue. Commo- 
dore Hillj'ar brought with him the Cherub sloop of war, 
mounting 28 guns, and a cdmplement of 380 men. The 
force of the Phoebe is, as follows : — 30 long 1 8 pound- 
<?rs, sixteen 32 prs. carronades, one howitzer, and six 3 
pounders, in the tops — in all, 53 guns, and a complement 
of 320 men — making a force of 81 guns, and 500 men ; 
in addition to which, they took on board the crew of an 
English letter of marque, laying in port. Both ships had 
picked crews, and were seiit into the Pacific, in company 
with the Racoon, of 22 guns, and a store-ship, of 20 guns, 
for the express purpose of seeking the Essex, and were 
prepared with flags, bearing the motto — " God and coun- 
try ; British sailors' best rights ; traitors offend both" — 
this was intended as a reply to my motto — " Free trade 
and sailor's rights" — under the erroneous impression that 
my crew were chiefly Englishmen, or to counteract its ef- 
fect on their own crews. The force of the Essex was 46 
guns — forty 32 pr. carronades, and six long 12's ; and her 
crew, which had been much reduced by prizes, amounted 



only to 255 men ; the Essex Junior, which was inteniled 
chiefly as a store-ship, mounted 20 guns — ten 18 pr. car- 
ronades, and ten short 6's, with only 60 men on hoard. — 
In reply to their motto, I wrote at my mizen — " God, our 
country, and liberty ; tyrants offend them." 

On getting their provisions on board, they went off the 
port, for the purpose of blockading me, where they cruis- 
ed for near six weeks ; during which time I endeavored to 
provoke a challenge, and frequently, but ineffectually, to 
bring the Phoibe, alone, to action — iirst with both my 
ships, afterwards with my single sliip, with both crews on 
board. I was several times under way, and ascertained 
that I had greatly the advantage in point of sailing, and 
once succeeded in closing within gun-sliot of the Phoebe, 
and commenced a fire on her — when she ran down for the 
Cherub, which was two and a half miles to the leeward ; 
this excited some surprise, and expressions of indignation, 
as, previous to my getting under way, she hove too off 
the port, hoisted her motto-flag, and fired a gun to wind- 
ward. 

Com. Hillyar seemed determined to avoid a contest 
with me, on nearly equal terms ; and, from his extreme 
prudence, in keeping both his ships, ever after, constant- 
ly within hail of each other, there were no hopes of any 
advantages to my country, from a longer stay in port. 1 
therefore determined to put to sea, the first opportunity 
which should offer ; and I was the more strongly induced 
to do so, as I had gained certain intelligence that the Ta- 
gus, rating 38, and two other frigates, had sailed for that 
sea, in pursuit of me ; and I had reason to expect the arri- 
val of the Racoon, from the N. W. coast of America, where 
she had been sent for the purpose of destroying our tur 
establishment, on the Columbia. A rendezvous was ap- 
pointed for the Essex Junior, and every arrangement 
made for sailing ; and I intended to let them chase me off, 
to give the Essex Junior an opportunity of escaping. On 
the 28th of March, the day after this determination was 
formed, the wind came on to blow fresh from the south- 
ward, when 1 parted my larboard cable, and dragged my 
starboard anchor directly out to sea — not a moment was 



200 

to be lost in getting sail on the ship — the enemy were 
close in with the point, forming the west side of the bay ; 
but, on opening them, 1 saw a prospect of passing to wind- 
ward — when I took in my top-gallant sails, which were 
set over single reefed top-sails, and braced up for this 
purpose ; but, on rounding the point, a heavy squall 
struck the ship, and carried away her main top-mast, pre- 
ciptating the men, who were aloft, into the sea, who were 
drowned. Both ships now gave chase to me, and I en- 
deavored, in my disabled state, to gain the port ; but, 
finding I could not recover the common anchorage, I ran 
close mto a small bay, about three-fourths of a mile to 
leeward of the battery, on the east side of the harbor, and 
let go my anchor within pistol-shot of the shore, where I 
Intended to repair my damages, as soon as possible. The 
enemy continued to approach, and showed an evident in- 
tention of attacking, regardless of the neutraHty of the 
place where I was anchored ; and the caution they ob- 
served, in their approach to the attack of the crippled 
Essex, was truly ridiculous, as was their display of their 
motto-flags, and the number of jacks, at all their mast- 
heads. I, with as much expedition as circumstances would 
admit of, got my ship ready for action, and endeavored to 
get a spring on my cable ; but had not succeeded when 
the enemy, at 54 minutes after 3, P. M. made his attack ; 
the Phosbe placing herself under my stern, and the Che- 
rub on my starboard bow ; but the Cherub, soon finding 
her situation a hot one, bore up, and ran under my stern 
also, where both ships kept up a hot raking fire. I had 
got 3 long 12 pounders out of the stern ports, which were 
worked with so much bravery and skill, that, in half an 
hour, we so disabled both, as to compel them to haul off, 
to repair damages. In the course of this firing, I had, by 
the great exertions of Mr. Ed. Barnwell, the acting sailing- 
master, assisted by Mr. Linscott, the boatswain, succeed- 
ed in getting springs on our cable, at three different times ; 
but the fire of the enemy was so excessive, that before we 
could get our broadside to bear, they were shot away, 
and thus rendered useless to us. My ship had received 
many injuries, and several had been killed and wounded; 



but my brave officers and men, notwithstanding the ua? 
favorable circumstances under which we were brouo;ht to 
action, and the powerful force opposed to us, were no 
ways discouraged ; all appeared determined to defend 
their ship to the last extremity, and to die in preference 
to a shameful surrender. 

Our gaff, with the ensign and motto-flag at the mizen, 
had been shot away; but " Free trade and sailors' tights" 
continued to fly, at the fore — our ensign was replaced by 
another ; and, to guard against a similar event, an ensign 
was made fast in the mizen rigging, and several jacks 
were hoisted in different parts of the ship. The enemy 
soon repaired his damages for a fresh attack : he now 
placed himself, with both his ships, on my starboard quar- 
ter, out of the reach of my carronades, and where my 
stern guns could not be brought to bear ; he there kept 
up a most galling fire, which it was out of my power to 
return — when I saw no prospect of injuring him without 
getting under way, and becoming the assailant. My top- 
sail sheets, and haliards, were all shot away, as well as 
the jib and fore top-mast stay-sail haliards ; the only rope 
not cut, was the flying-jib haliards; and that being the 
only sail I could set, 1 caused it to be hoisted, my cable 
to be cut, and ran down on both ships, with an intention 
of laying the Pha3be on board. The firing, on both sides, 
was now tremendous ; I had let fall my fore-top sail and 
fore-sail ; but the want of tacks and sheets rendered them 
almost useless to us ; yet we were enabled, for a short 
time, to close with the enemy ; and although our decks 
were now strewed with dead, and our cock-pit filled with 
wounded ; although our ship had been several times on 
fire, and was rendered a perfect wreck, we were still en- 
couraged to hope to save her, from the circumstance of 
the Cherub, from her crippled state, being compelled to 
haul off. She did not return to close action again, al- 
though she had it, apparently, in her power to do so ; but 
kept up a distant firing, with her long guns. The Phosbe, 
from our disabled state, was enabled, however, by edging 
off, to choose the distance which best suited her long 
guns., and kept up a tremendous fire on us, wlwch mowe^ 

C c 



202 

down my brave companions by the dozen ; many of my 
guns had been rendered useless by the enemy's shot, and 
many of them had their whole crews destroyed — we 
manned them again, from those which were disabled ; and 
one gun, in particular, was three times manned — 15 men 
were slain, at it, in the course of the action ! but, strange 
as it may appear, the Captain of it escaped with only a 
sho-ht wound. Finding that the enemy had it in his pow- 
er to choose his distance, I new gave up all hopes of 
closing with him; and, as the wind, for the moment, 
seemed to favour the design, I determined to endeavor to 
run her on shore, land my men, and destroy her ; eve- 
ry thing seemed to favor my wishes — we had approached 
the shore, within musquet-shot, and I had no doubt of 
succeeding, when, in an instant, the wind shifted from the 
land, and payed our head down on the Phcebe, where we 
were again exposed to a dreadful raking fire. My ship was 
now totally unmanageable ; yet, as her head was toward 
the enemy, and he to leeward of me, I still hoped to be 
able to board him. At this moment, Lieut. Commandant 
Downs came on board to receive my orders, under the im- 
pression that 1 should soon be a prisoner ; he could be of 
no use to me in the then wretched state of the Essex; and 
finding, (from the enemy's putting his helm up,) that my 
last attempt at boarding would not succeed, I directed 
him to return to his own ship, to be prepared for defend- 
ing and destroying her, in case of attack ; he took with 
him several of my wounded, leaving three of his boat's 
crew on board, to make room for them. The Cherub 
now had an opportunity of distinguishing herself, by keep- 
ing up a hot fire on him, during his return. The slaugh- 
ter, on board my ship, had now become horrible ; the ene- 
my continuing to rake us, and we unable to bnng a gun 
to bear. I therefore directed a hawser to be bent to the 
sheet anchor, and the anchor to be cut from the bows, to 
bring her head round — this succeeded — we again got our 
broadside to bear ; and, as the enemy was much crippled, 
and unable to hold his own, I have no doubt he would 
soon have drifted out of gun-shot, before he discovered 
we had anchored, had not the hawser unfortunately part- 



203 

ed. My ship had taken fire several times, during the ac- 
tion ; but alarmingly so, forward and aft, at this moment 
— the flames were bursting up each hatch-way, and no 
hopes were entertained of saving her; our distance from 
the shore did not exceed three quarters of a mile, and ] 
iioped many of my brave crew would be able to save 
themselves, should the ship blow up, as I was informed 
the fire was near the magazine — and the explosion of a 
large quantity of powder below, served to increase the 
horrors of our situation. Our boats were destroyed by 
the enemy's shot ; I therefore directed those who could 
swim, to jump overboard, and endeavor to gain the shore. 
Some reached it, some were taken by the enemy, and 
some perished in the attempt ; but most preferred sharing, 
with me, the fate of the ship. We, who remained, now 
turned our attention wholly to extinguishing the flames ; 
and, when we had succeeded, went again to our guns, 
where the firing was kept up for some minutes ; but the 
crew had, by this time, become so weakened, that they all 
declared to me the impossibility of making further resis- 
tance; and entreated me to surrender my ship to save 
the w^ounded, as all further attempt at opposition must 
prove ineffectual — almost every gun being disabled by 
the destruction of their crews. I now sent for the officers 
of divisions, to consult them ; but, what was my surprise, 
to find only acting Lieut. Stephen D. M'Knight remain- 
ing, (who confirmed the report respecting the condition 
of the guns, on the gun-deck ; those on the spar-deck 
were not in a better st'ate.) 

Lieut. VVilmer, after fighting most gallantly, through- 
out the action, had been knocked overboard, by a sphn- 
ter, while getting the sheet anchor from the bows, and 
was drowned. Acting Lieut. John G. Cowell had lost a 
leg ; Ed. Barnwell, acting sailing-master, had been car- 
ried below, after receiving two severe wounds, one in the 
breast, and one in the face ; and acting Lieut. W. H. Oden- 
heimer had been knocked overboard, from the quarter, 
an instant before, and did not regain the ship until after 
<he surrender. I was informed that the cock-pit, thp 



•204 

steerage, the ward-room, and the birth-deck, could con- 
tain no more wounded — that the wounded were killed 
while the surgeons were dressing them ; and that, unless 
something was speedily done to prevent it, the ship would 
soon sink, from the number of snot-holes in her bottom ; 
and on sending for the carpenter, he informed me that all 
his crew had been killed or wounded ; and that he had 
once been over the side, to stop the leaks, when his slings 
had been shot away, and it was with difficulty he was 
saved from drowning. The enemy, from the smoothness 
of the water, and the impossibility of our reaching him 
with our carronades, and the little apprehension that was 
excited by our fire, which had now become much slack- 
ened, was enabled to take aim at us, as at a target ; his 
shot never missed our hull ; and ray ship was cut up in a 
manner, which was, perhaps, never before witnessed — in 
iine, I saw no hopes of saving her ; and, at 20 minutes 
after 6, P. M. gave the painful order to strike the colors. 
Seventy-five men, including officers, were all that remain- 
ed, of my whole crew, after the action, capable of doing 
duty ; and many of them severely wounded, some of whom 
have since died. The enemy still continued his fire, and 
my brave, though unfortunate companions, were still fall- 
ing about me. I directed an opposite gun to be fired, to 
shew them we intended no further resistance ; but they 
did not desist-- — four men were killed at my side, and 
others in different parts of the ship. I now believed he 
intended to show us no quarter, and that it would be as 
^ell to die Vv'ith our jflag flying as struck, and was on the 
point of again hoisting it, when, about ten minutes after 
haulinjr the colors down, he ceased firing:. 

I cannot speak in sufficiently high terms of the conduct 
of those engaged, for such an unparalleled length of time» 
under such circumstances, with me, in the arduous and 
unequal contest. Let it suffice to say, that more bravery, 
skill, patriotism, and zeal, were never displayed on any 
occasion. Every one seemed determined to die in de- 
fence of their much loved country's cause ; and nothing, 
but views of humanity, could ever have reconciled them 
to the surrender ©f the ship; they remembered theii? 



205 

wounded and helpless shipmates below. To acting Lieu- 
tenants M'Knight and Odenheimer, I feel much indebted^ 
for their great exertions and bravery throughout the ac- 
tion, in fighting, and encouraging the men at their divi- 
sions; for the dexterous management of the long guns, 
and for their promptness in re-manning their guns as their 
crews were slaughtered. The conduct of that brave and 
heroic officer, acting Lieut. John G. Cowell, who lost his 
leg in the latter part of the action, excited the admiration 
of every man in the ship ; and after being wounded, would 
not consent to be taken below, until loss of blood render- 
ed him insensible. Mr. Edward Barnwell, actinu: sail- 
in^-master, whose activity and coui-age was equally con- 
spicuous, returned on deck, after his first wound ; and re- 
mained, after receiving his second, until fainting with loss 
of blood. Mr. Samuel B. Johnson, who had joined me 
the day before, and acted as marine oificcr, conducted 
himself with great bravery, and exerted himself in assist- 
ing at the long guns ; the musquetry, after the first iiaif 
hour, being useless, from our long distance. 

Mr. M. W. Bostwick, whom I had appointed acting 
purser of the Essex Junior, and who was on board my 
ship, did the duties of aid, in a manner which reflects on 
him the highest honor ; and Midshipmen Isaacs, Farra- 
gut, and Ogden, as well as acting Midshipmen Jame<s Ter- 
ry, James R. layman, and Samuel Duzenbury, and mas- 
ter's mate William Pierce, exerted themselves in the per- 
formance of their respective duties, and gave an earnest 
of their value to the service ; the three first are too young 
to recommend for promotion — the latter, 1 beg leave to 
recommend for confirmation, as well as the acting Lieu- 
tenants, and Messrs. Barnwell, Johnson, and 'Bostwick. 

We have been unfortunate, but not dis2:raced ; the de- 
fence of the Essex has not been less honorable to her ofB- 
cers and crew, than the capture of an equal force ; and T 
now consider my situation less unpleasant than that of 
Com. Hillyar, who, in violation of every principle of honor 
and generosity, and regardless of the rights of nations, 
attacked the Essex, in her crippled slate, within pistol- 
shot of a neuiral shorq — when, for six weeks, I had daily 



206 

offered him fair and honorable combat, on terms greatly 
to his advantage ; the blood of the slain must be on his 
head; and he has yet to reconcile his conduct to heaven, 
to his conscience, and to the world. The annexed ex- 
tract of a letter from Commodore Hillyar, which was 
written previous to his returning me my sword, will show 
his opinion of our conduct. 

My loss has been dreadfully severe — 58 killed, (or 
have since died of their wounds,) and, among them, Lieut. 
Cowell — 39 were severely wounded; 27 slightly, and 31 
are missing — making, in all, 154 killed, wounded, and 
missing. 

The professional knowledge of Doctor Richard Hoff- 
man, acting surgeon, and Doctor Alexander Montgomery, 
acting surgeon's mate, added to their assiduity, and the 
benevolent attentions and assistance of Mr. D. P. Adams, 
the chaplain, saved the lives of many of the wounded ; 
those gentlemen have been indefatigable in their atten- 
tions to them ; the two first I beg leave to recommend for 
confirmation, and the latter to the notice of the depart- 
ment. 

I must, in justification of myself, observe, that with our 
six 12 pounders only, we fought this action ; our carron- 
ades being almost useless. 

The loss, in killed and wounded, has been great with 
the enemy ; among the former is the 1st Lieut, of the 
Phcebe ; and of the latter, Capt. Tucker, of the Cherub, 
whose wounds are severe. Both the Essex and Phoebe 
were in a sinking state ; and it was with difficulty they 
eould be kept afloat, until they anchored in Valparaiso, 
next morning. The battered state of the Essex will, I 
believe, prevent lier from ever reaching England ; and, I 
also think, it will be out of their power to repair the da- 
mages of the Phabe, so as to enable her to double Cape 
Horn. All the masts and yards of the Phcebe, and Che- 
rub, are badly crippled, and their hulls much cut up — the 
former had eighteen 1 2 pr. shot through her, below her 
water line, some three feet under water. Nothing but the 
smoothness of the water, saved both the Phoebe and Essex. 

I hope, sir, that our conduct may prove satisfactory to 



207 

our country ; and that it will testify U, by obtaining 
our speedy exchange, that vvc may again have it in our 
power to prove our zeal. 

Commodore Hillyar, I am informed, has thought 
proper to state to his government, that the action only 
lasted 45 minutes; should he have done so, the motive 
may be easily discovered. But the thousands of dis- 
interested witnesses, who covered the surrounding hills, 
can testify, that we fought his ships near two hours and 
an half. Upwards of lifty broadsides were fired by 
the enemy, agreeably to their own account ; and up- 
wards of seventy-five by ours. Except the few minutes 
they were repairing damages, the firing was incessant. 

Soon after my capture, I entered into an agreement 
Avith Commodore Hillyar, to disarm my prize, the Es- 
sex Junior, and proceed with the survivors of my offi- 
cers and crew, in her, to the United States. He con- 
sented to grant her a passport, to secure her from re- 
capture. 1 The ship was small, and we knew we had 
much to sulfer ; yet we hoped soon to reach our coun- 
try, in safety, that we might again have it in our pow- 
er to serve it. This arrangement was attended with 
no additional expence, as she was abundantly supplied 
with provisions, and stores, for the voyage. 

In justice to Commodore Hillyar, I must observe, 
that, although I can never be reconciled to the manner 
of his attack upon the Essex, or to his conduct before 
the action, he has, since our capture, shown the great- 
est humanity to my woimded, (whom he permitted me 
to land, on condition that the U. States should bear the 
expences ;) and has endeavored, as much as lay in his 
power, to alleviate the distresses of war, by the most 
generous and delicate deportment towards myself, my 
officers, and crew. He gave orders that the property 
of every person should be respected ; his orders, how- 
ever, were not so strictly attended to, as might have 
been expected : besides being deprived of books, 
charts, &c. both myself and officeis lost many articles 
of clothing, some to a considerable amount. I should 
not have considered this last circumstance of sufficient 



importance to notice, did it not mark a siikin^ difiei" 
ence between the navy of G. Britain, and the U. States^ 
bio^hly credible to the latter. 

To possess ttie Essex, it has cost the British govern- 
ment nearly six millions of dollars ; and yet, sir, lier 
capture was owing entirely to accident; and, if Ave con- 
sider the expedition with which naval contests are now 
decided, the action is a dishonor to them. Had they 
brought their ships boldly into action, with a force so 
very superior, and having the choice of position, they 
should either have captured or destroyed us, in one 
fourth the time they were about it. 

During the action, our Consul General, Mr. Poinsett, 
called on the Governor of Valparaiso, and requested 
that the batteries might protect the Essex ; this re- 
quest was refused ; but he promised, if she should suc- 
ceed in lighting her way to the common anchorage, he 
would send an officer to the British commander, and 
request him to cease firing; but declined using force, 
under any circumstances; — and, there is no doubt, a 
perfect understanding existed between them. This con- 
duct, added to the assistance given to the British, and 
their friendly reception, after the action, and the strong 
bias of the faction, which govern Chili, in favor of the 
English, as well as their hostility to the Americans, in- 
duced Mr. Poinsett to leave that country. Under such 
circumstances, I did not conceive it would be proper 
for me to claim the restoration of my ship, confident 
that the claim would be made by my government, 
with more effect. Finding some difficulty, in the sale 
of my prizes, I had taken the Hector and Catharine to 
sea, and burnt them, with their cargoes. 

I exchanged Lieut. M'Knight, Mr. Adams, and Mr. 
Lyman, and 1 1 seamen, for a part of the crew of the 
Sir A. Hammond, and sailed from Valparaiso on the 
27th of April, where the enemy were still patching up 
their ships, to put them in a state for proceeding to Rio 
de Janeiro, previous to going to England. 

I have the honor, &c. D. PORTER. 

Hon, Sec. Navy. 



209 

[LETTER REFERRED TO IN THE FOREGOING.] 
Extract of a letter from Com. Hillyar to Capt. Porter. 

*' Phoebe, April ith, 1814. 

" Ml/ dear Sir — Neither in our conversations nor in 
the accompanying letter, have I mentioned your sword. 
Ascribe my remissness, in the first instance, to forget- 
fulness ; I consider it only in my servant's possession, 
with my own, until the master may please to call for 
it ; and although I omitted, at the moment of presen- 
tation, from my mind being engrossed in attending to 
professional duties, to offer its restoration, the hand 
that received will be most gladly extended, to put it 
in possession of him who wore it so honorably, in de- 
fending his country's cause. 

" Believe me, &c. 
(Signed) « JAMES HILLYAR. 

" Captain Porter.^'' 

BATTLE AT CHIPPEWA PLAINS. 

Co/yj/ of a letter from Maj. Gen. Brown, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Chippewa PlainSy July 6, 1814. 
SIR — Excuse my silence — I have been much en- 
gaged. Fort Erie did not, as I assured you it should 
not, detain me a single day. At 11 o'clock, on the 
night of the 4th, I arrived at this place with the reserve. 
General Scott having taken the position, about noon, 
with the van. My arrangements, for turning, and 
taking in rear the enemy's position, east of Chippewa, 
was made ; when Maj. Gen. Reall, suspecting our in- 
tention, and adhering to the rule, that it is better to 
give than to receive an attack, came from behind his 
works, about 5 o'clock in the afternoon of the 5th, in 
order of battle. We did not baulk him; — before 6 
o'clock, his line was broken, and his forces defeated — 
leaving on the field 400 killed and wounded. He was 
closely pressed, and would have been utterly ruined, 

D d 



210 

hut for tlie pioxiinity of his works, whither he fled for 
shelter. The wounded of the eneuiy, and those of our 
own army, must be attended to — they will be removed 
to Buflaloe ; this, with my limited means of transporta- 
tion, will take a day or two; after which, I shall ad- 
vance, not doubting but that the gallant and accom- 
plished troops 1 led, will break down all opposition, be- 
twf en me and lake Ontario, when, if met by the fleet, 
all is well — if not, under the favor of heaven, we shall 
behave in a way to avoid disgrace. My detailed re- 
port shall be made in a day or two. 
I am, &c. 

JACOB BROWN, 
Hon. Sec. War. 



PROCEEDINGS ON LAKE ONTARIO. 

Copy of a Idter from Com. Chauncey, to the Secretary of the Navy. 

U. S. S. Superior, Sacket's Harbor, July 7, 1814. 

SIR — I am happy to have it in my power to detail 
to you, another brilliant achievement of Lieut Gregory, 
with his brave companions. — I received information, 
some time since, that the enemy was building a large 
schooner, at Presqiie-Isle. On the 26th ult. I directed 
Lieut. Gregory to take with him Messi's. Vaughn and 
Dixon, proceed, with the two largest gigs, to Nicholas 
island, (within about 7 miles of Presque-Isle harbor,) 
and there conceal his boats, and wait for some trans- 
ports, which, I had information, were expected there to 
take up provisions and munitions of war, ^vhich had 
been sent up the bay of Quintu, for the troops at York 
and fort George ; but, if these transports did not make 
their appearance in 3 or 4 days, then to proceed to 
Presque-Isle, and burn the vessel on the stocks — but 
with positive orders not to injure a private building or 
private property. 

The day after Lieut. Gregory arrived on the coast, 
he discovered a vessel beating up; but, just as he 
shoved ofl'to board her, a large gun-boat hove in sight. 



211 

a little below him ; this boat made a signal to the ves- 
sel in the offing, upon which she tacked, and stood for 
the gun-boat. Lieut. Gregory secreted his boats as 
well as he could, but was apprehensive that he had 
been discovered. The gun-boat, and her convoy, which 
was full of tioopR, stood into Presque-Isle. Lieut. Gre- 
ii-orv was determined to ascertain wlielher he had been 
discovered; accordingly, he sent one oi his boats, m 
the next night, and took off one of the inhabitants, who 
informed him that it was known he was on the coast, 
and that two expresses had been sent to Kingston, in 
consequence ; he, therefore, determined upo,n execut- 
ing the latter part of his instructions, and made hi^ ar- 
rangements accordingly — landed, placed centinels at 
the houses, to prevent alarm, and set tire to the vessel, 
wliich was nearly ready to launch. She was a stout, 
well-built vessel, to mount 14 guns, and would proba- 
bly have been launched in about 10 days A small 
store-house, which contained stores for tlie vessel, was 
unavoidably burnt, as it was so near the vessel that it 
took fire from her. Lieut. Gregory learnt, from the 
inhabitants, that much property had been sent up, a 
few days previous ; that a company, of the Glengary 
regiment, had been stationed there, but had been sent 
to York a few days before ; another company was on 
its way, from Kingston, to replace them; tlie few mili- 
tia, which had been left to guard the vessel and proper- 
ty, retreated, upon the approach of our boats. As soon 
as the vessel was entirely consumed, Lieut. Gregory 
re-embarked his men, without having permitted one of 
them to enter a house. Finding the alarm so general, 
he thought prudent to cross the lake immediately ; he 
stopped one day at Oswego, for refreshment, and ar- 
rived here last evening — having performed a most 
difficult service, with his usual gallantry and good 
conduct. 

I have the honor, &c. 

ISAAC Cr^AUNCEY, 
Hon. W Jones, Sec. Navy. 



212 
FURTHER, OF THE BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA. 

Copy of a letter from Major-Gencral Brown, to the Secretary of 
IVar, dated 

H. Q. Chippewa Plains, July 7, 1814. 

DExAll SIK — On the second inst. I issued my or- 
ders for crossing the Niagara river, and made the ar- 
rangements, deemed necessary, for securing the garri- 
son of fort Erie. On the 3d, that post surrendered, at 
5, P. M. Our loss, in this affair, was four wounded — 
1 have enclosed a return of the prisoners, of the ord- 
nance, and ordnance stores, captured. 

To secure my rear, I have placed a garrison in this 
fort, and requested Capt. Kennedy, to station his ves- 
sels near the post. 

On the morning of the 4th, Brig. Gen. Scott, with 
his brigade, and a corps of artillery, was ordered to ad- 
vance towards Chippewa, and be governed by circum- 
stances — taking care to secure a good military position 
for the night. After some skirmishing with the enemy, 
he selected this plain, with the eye of a soldier — his 
right resting on the river, and a ravine being in front. 
At 11, at night, I joined him with the reserve, under 
Gen. Ripley, our field, and battering train, and corps of 
artillery under Maj.Hmdman. Gen. Porter arrived, next 
morning, with a part of the N. Y. and Pennsylvania vo- 
lunteers, and some of the warriors of the Six Nations. 

Early in the morning of the 5th, the enemy com- 
menced a petty war upon our pickets, and, as he was 
indulged, his presumption increased ; — by noon, he 
showed himself on the left of our exterior line, and at- 
tacked one of our pickets, as it was returning to camp. 
Capt. Treat, who commanded it, retired, disgracefully, 
leaving a wounded man on the ground. Capt. Biddle, 
of the artillery, who was near the scene, impelled b^ 
feelings, highly honorable to him, as a soldier and offi- 
cer, promptly assumed the command of this picket — 
led it back to the wounded man, and brought him off 
the field. 1 ordered Capt. Treat, on the spot, to retire 
from the army ; and, as I am anxious that no officer 



213 # 

shall remain under my command, who can be suspecl 
ed of cowardice, I advise that Capt. Treat, and Lieut. 

-, who was also with the picket, be struck from 

the rolls of the army. 

At 4 o'clock, P. M. agreeably to a plan I had given 
Gen. Porter, he advanced from the rear of our camp, 
with the volunteers and Indians, (taking the woods, in 
order to keep out of view of the enemy,) with a hope 
of bringing his pickets, and scouting parties, between 
his (Porter's) line of march, and our camp. As Porter 
moved, I ordered the parties, advanced in front of our 
camp, to fall back, gradually, under the enemy's fire, 
in order to draw him, if possible, up to our line. About 
half p.^st 4, the advance of Gon. Porter's command, met 
the light parties of the enemy in the woods, upon our 
exireme lett — the enemy were driven ; and Porter, ad- 
vancing near to Chippewa, met their whole column in 
order of battle. From the cloud of dust rising, and 
the heavy firing, I was led to conclude that the whole 
force of the enemy was in march, and prepared for ac- 
tion. I immediately ordered Gen. Scott to advance, 
with his brigade, and Towson's artillery, and meet 
them upon the plain, in front of our camp. The Gen- 
eral did not expect to be gratified, so soon, with a field 
engagement ; he advanced, in the most prompt and 
officer-like style, and, in a few minutes, was in close 
action, upon the plain, with a superior force of British 
regular troops. By this time. Gen. Porter's command 
had given way, and fled in every direction, notwith- 
standing his personal gallantry, and great exertions to 
stay their flight. The retreat of the volunteers and In- 
dians, caused the left flank of Gen. Scott's brigade to 
be greatly exposed. Capt. Harris, with his dragoons, 
was directed to stop the fugitives, behind the ravine, 
fronting our camp; and I sent Col. Gardner to order 
Gen. Ripley, to advance with the 21 st regiment, which 
formed part of the reserve — pass to the left of our 
camp, skirt the woods, so as to keep out of view, and 
fall upon the rear of the enemy's right flank ; this or- 
der was promptly obeyed ; and the greatest exertions 



i^l4 

were made by tiie 21^1 regiment, to ^n'ln their position, 
and close wilh the enemy — l)ut in vain; for such Avas 
the zeal and gallantry of the line, commanded by Gen. 
Scott, that its advance upon tlie enemy was not to be 
checked. Majcn- .fessup, commanding the left flank 
battalion, finding himself pressed in front, and in flank, 
and his men falling fast around him, ordered his batta- 
lion to " support arms, and advance/' The order was 
promptly obeyed, amidst the most deadly and destruc- 
tive fire ; he gained a more secure position, and return- 
ed upon the enemy so galling a discharge, as caused 
them to retire. By this time, their whole line was fall- 
ing back, and our gallant soldiers pressing upon them, 
as fast as possible. As soon as the enemy had gained 
the sloping ground, descending towards Chippewa, and 
distant a quarter of a mile, he broke, and ran to gain 
his works ; in this effort, he was too successful ; and 
the guns, from his batteiies, opening immediately up- 
on our line, checked, in some degree, tlie pursuit. At 
this moment, I resolved to biing up all my ordnance, 
and force the place by a direct attack, and gave the or- 
der accordingly. Major Wood, of the corps of engi- 
neers, and my aid, Capt. Austin, rode to the bank of 
the creek, towards the right of their line of works, and 
examined them. I was induced, by the lateness of their 
report, the lateness of the hour, and the advice of Gen. 
Scott, and Major Wood, to order the forces to retire to 
camp. 

My most difficult duty remains to be performed — 
I am depressed with the fear of not being able to do 
justice to my companions in arms ; and apprehensive that 
some, who had an opportunity of distinguishing them- 
selves, and promptly embraced It, will escape my notice. 

Brig Gen. Scott is entitled to the highest praises our 
country can bestow ; to him, more than to any man, am 
I indebted for the victory of the 5th of July — his brigade 
has covered itself with glory. Every officer, and every 
man of the 9th, 22d, 11th, and 25th regiments, did his 
duty, with a zeal and energy worthy of the American 
character. When every olficer stands so pre-eminently 



215 

high in the path of duty and honor, it is impossible to 
discriminate ; but I cannot deprive myself of the pleasure 
of saying, that Major Leavenworth, commanded the 9th, 
and 22d ; Major Jessup the 25th, and Major M'Neil the 
11th. Col. Campbell was wounded early in the action, 
gallantly leading on his regiment. 

The family of General Scott were conspicuous in the 
field ; Lieut. Smith, of the 6th infantry, Major of Brigade, 
and Lieutenants Worth and Watts, his aids. 

From General Ripley, and his Brigade, I received eve- 
ry assistance that I gave them an opportunity of render- 
ing. I did not order any part of the reserve into action, 
until Gen. Porter's command had given way ; and then 
Gen. Scott's movements were so rapid, and decisive, that 
Gen. Hipley could not get up in time, with the 21st, to 
the position as directed. The corps of artillery, under 
Major Hindman, were not generally in action ; this v/as 
not their fault. Capt. Towson's company was the only 
one that had a full opportunity of distinguishing itself; 
and it is believed that no company ever embraced an op- 
portunity with more zeal, or more success. 

A detachment from the 2d brigade, under the com- 
mand of Lieut. M'Donald, penetrated the woods, with the 
Indians and volunteers, and for their support ; the con- 
duct of M'Donald, and his command, rcliects high honor 
upon the brigade to which they belonj^. 

The conduct of Gen. Porter has been conspicuoush 
gallant ; every assistance, in his power to afford, with the 
description of lorce under his command, has been render- 
ed; we could not expect him to contend with the British 
column of regulars, whicli appeared upon the plains ot 
Chippewa — it was no cause of surprize to me, to see hi^ 
command retire before this column. 

Justice forbids that I should omit to name my ov.n fa- 
mily : they yield to none, in honorable zeal, intelligence, 
and attention to duty — Col. Gardner, Major Jones, and 
my aids, Captains Austin and Spencer, have been as ac- 
tive, and as much devoted to the cause, as any officers of 
the army; their conduct merits my warmest acknowledg- 
ments — of Gardner and Jones. I shall have occasion again 



216 

to speak to you. Major Camp, deputy Quarter-master 
General, deserves my particular notice, and approbation : 
by his great exertions 1 was enabled to find the means of 
crossing. Capt. Daliba, of the ordnance department, has 
rendered every service in his power. 

The enclosed return will show you our loss, and fur- 
nish you with the names of the dead and wounded offi- 
cers — these gallant men must not be forgotten ; our coun- 
try will remember them, and do them justice. 

Respectfully, &;c. 

JACOB BROWN. 
Hon. Sec. War. 

In the above action, the enemy had 208 killed, and 95 
wounded — 15 prisoners — Total, 308. 

Those reported under the head of wounded and prison' 
ers were so severely injured, that it would have been im- 
practicable for them to have escaped. The enemy had 
the same facilities of carrying their wounded from the field, 
at the commencement of the action, as ourselves ; and 
there can be no doubt, from the information that I have 
received from unquestionable sources, that they carried 
from the field as niany of their wounded as is reported 
above in the total. 

AZ. ORNE, Asst. Ins. Gen. 

Our loss was 60 killed— 115 S. 134 B. wounded— 19 
prisoners — Total 328. 

The British official account of the above action, state 
their total loss at 514. 



FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Brown, to the Secretary of War, dated 
H. Q. Queenston, July 22rf, 1814. 

DEAR SIR— On the 20th, the army moved, and en- 
camped in the rear of fort George. Gen. Scott, with the 



217 

van, had somie skirmishing, before the main body came- 
up; but, as the enemy kept close to their works, notliino-. 
important occurred. No force was left in our rear — the 
heights were abandoned to the enemy, and we did hope 
that the movement would have induced him to re-occupy 
them, or close in nearer to us, so as to brino^ on an eng-ao-e- 
ment out of his works ; in this we were disappointed.— 
The army returned to-day, and found a body of militia 
and a few reg-ulars, in and about the heio-hts : Gen. Por- 
ter pursued them with his command, and a (cw regulars, 
and was so fortunate as to come up with and capture 
seven officers and ten privates — they will be sent to 
Greenbush. 

Respectfully, &;c. 

JACOB BROWN. 



FURTHER PROCEEDINGS. 

Copy of a letter from Major-General Brown, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

H. Q. Chippewa, July 2.% 1814. 

DEAR SIR— On the 23d inst. I received a letter by 
express, from General Gaines, advising me, that, on the 
20th, the heavy guns that I had ordered from the Harbor, 
to enable me to operate against forts George and Niaga- 
ra, were blockaded in that port, together with the rifle 
regiment that I had ordered up with them. 1 had order- 
ed these guns, and troops, in boats, provided the Commo» 
dore should not deem it proper or prudent to convey them 
in his fleet, not doubting but that he would have been 
upon the lake for their protection, and that the enemy 
would have been driven into port, or captured. As Gen. 
Gaines informed me that the Commodore was confined to 
his bed with a fever, and as he did not know when the 
fleet would sail, or when the guns and forces which I had 
been expecting, would even leave Sacket's Harbor, I have 
thought it proper to change my position, with a view to 
other objects. You know how greatly I am disappointed, 

E e 



218 

and therefore I will not dwell upon that painful subject ; 
and you can best perceive how much has been lost by 
the delay — and the command of lake Ontario being with 
the enemy — reliances being placed upon a different state 
of things. The Indians all left me some time since; it is 
said that they will return ; but this, you will perceive, de- 
pends upon circumstances. The reinforcements ordered 
on", from the west, have not arrived. 

Yours, respectfully, and truly, 

JACOB BROWN. 
Hon. Sec. of War. 



BATTLE OF BRIDGEWATER. 

Copy of a letter from Capt. L. Austin, Aid to Gen. Browne to the Se- 
cretary of War, dated 

H. Q. Bvffaloe, 29th July, 1814. 

I have the honor of addressing you by desire of Gen. 
Brown, who is now confined by wounds, received in a se- 
vere and desperate engagement with the enemy, on the 
afternoon and night of the 25th instant. 

Our army had fallen back to Chippewa. The enemy, 
collecting every regiment from Burhngton and York, and 
meeting with no opposition on lake Ontario, transported, 
by water, to fort George, troops from Kingston, and even 
Prescott, which enabled them to bring a force against us, 
vastly superior, under the command of Lieut. Gen. Drum- 
mond and Maj. Gen. Riall. They were met by us near 
the falls of Niagara, where a most severe conflict ensued; 
the enemy disputed the ground with resolution, yet were 
driven from every position they attempted to hold. We 
stormed his batteries, directly in front, and took posses- 
sion of all his artillery ; notwithstanding his immense su- 
periority, both in numbers and position, he was complete- 
ly defeated, and our troops remained on the battle ground, 
without any interruption. As, however, both Generals 
Brown and Scott had received severe wounds — almost 
every chief of battalion disabled — and our men quite ex- 



219 ' 

hausted, it was thought prudent to retire to our encamp- 
ment ; which was done in good order, without any mo- 
lestation from the enemy — our wounded having first been 
removed. 

Maj. Gen. Riall, with the aid-de-camp of Lieut. Gen= 
Drummond, and about twenty other officers, with two 
hundred privates, are taken prisoners. 

The loss, on both sides, is immense ; but no account 
has yet been returned. The aid, and brigade Major of 
Gen. Scott, are both severely wounded ; and Capt. bpen- 
cer, an aid of Gen. Brown, most probably dead, having 
received two balls through his body. Both Generals 
Brown and Scott are on this side, confined by their 
wounds ; Gen. Ripley commands on the other. General 
Brown received his wounds at the same instant, during a 
late part of the action ; but still continued to keep nis 
horse, until exhausted by loss of blood— -this, probably, 
has rendered his wounds more painful than they would 
otherwise have been. 

I have the honor, &o. 

L. AUSTIN, A. D. Camp. 

Hon. Sec. War. 

COL. PEARSON'S EXPEDITION. 

The official communication of Col. Pearson, command- 
ing the S. C. militia, in the southern indian country, to 
Gov. Hawkins, has been received. — The result of Col. 
Pearson's expedition is the taking prisoners 622 warriors, 
women and children, without firing a gun, or losing a man. 
Col, Pearson's letters, detailing his movements, are dated 
June 1st and 13th. 



FURTHER— BATTLE OF BRIDGEWATER. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Brown, to the Secretary of War, being 
his detailedreport of the Battle ofBrid^ewater,foztght July 25, 1814. 

SIR — Confined as I was, and have been, since the last 
engagement with the enemy, I fear that the account I am 



220 

about to give, may be less full and satisfactory, than, un- 
der other circumstances, it might have been made. I par- 
ticularly fear that the conduct of the gallant men, it v\as 
my good fortune to lead, will not be noticed in a way due 
to their fame, and the honor of our country. 

You are already apprised that the army had, on the 
25th ult. taken a position at Chippewa ; about noon of 
tliat day. Col. Swift, who was posted at Lewistown, ad- 
vised me, by express, that the enemy appeared in consi- 
derable force, in Queenston, and on its heights ; that four 
of the enemy's fleet had arrived, during the preceding 
night, and were then lying near fort Niagara ; and that a 
number of boats weie in view, moving up the streight. — 
Within a few minutes after this intelhgence had been re- 
ceived, I was further informed, by Capt. Denmon, of the 
Quarter-master's department, that the enemy was landing 
at Lewistown ; and that our baggage and stores at 
Schlosser, and on their way thither, were in danger of im- 
mediate capture. It is proper here to mention, that hav- 
ing received advices as late as the 20th, from Gen. Gaines, 
that our fleet was then in port, and the Commodore sick, 
we ceased to look for co-operation from that quarter, and 
determined to disencumber ourselves of baggage, and 
march directly tor Burlington heights : to mask this in- 
tention, and to draw from Schlosser a small supply of pro- 
visions, I fell back upon Chippewa. As this arrangement, 
under the increased force of the enemy, left much at ha- 
zard, on our own side of the Niagara, and as it appeared, 
by the before stated information, that the enemy was 
about to avail himself of it, I conceived that the most effec- 
tual method of recalling him from this object, was to put 
myself in motion towards Queenston. Gen Scott, with 
the 1st brigade, Towson's artillery, and all the dragoons 
and mounted men, were accordingly put in march, on the 
road leading thither, with orders to report if the enemy 
appeared — then to call for assistance, if that was neces- 
sary. 

On the General's arrival at the falls, he learned that 
the enemy was in force, directly in his front, narrow 
pieces of woods alone intercepting his view of them : — 



221 

waiting only to give this information, he advanced upon 
them; by the time assistant Adj. Gen. Jones had dehver- 
ed his message, the action began ; and before the remain- 
ing part of the division had crossed the Chippewa, it had 
become close and general between the advanced corps. 
Though Gen. Ripley, with the second brigade. Major 
Hindman, with the corps of artillery, and Gen. Porter, at 
the head of his com nand, had respectively pressed for- 
ward with ardor, it was not less than an hour before they 
were brought to sustain Gen. Scott, during which time his 
command most skilfulfy, and gallantly, maintained the 
conflict. Upon my arrival, 1 found that the General had 
passed the wood, and engaged the enemy on the Queens- 
ton road, and on the ground to the left of it, with the 9th, 
1 1 th, and 22d regiments, with Towson's artillery — the 
25th had been thrown to the right, to be governed by 
circumstances. Apprehending that these corps were 
much exhausted, and knowing that they had suffered se- 
verely, 1 determined to interpose a new Hne with the ad- 
vancing troops, and thus disengage Gen. Scott, and hold 
his brigade in reserve ; orders were accordingly given to 
Gen. Kipley. The enemy's artillery, at this moment, oc- 
cupied a hill, which gave him great advantages, and was 
the key of the whole position ; it was supported by a line 
of infantry. To secure the victory, it was necessary to 
carry this artillery, and seize the height ; — this duty was 
assigned to Col. Miller, while, to favor its execution, the 
1st regiment, under the command of Col. Nicholas, was 
directed to menace and amuse the infantry. To my great 
mortification, this regiment, after a discharge or two, gave 
way, and retreated some distance before it could be ral- 
lied, though, it is believed, the officers of the regiment 
exerted themselves to shorten this distance. In the mean 
time, Col. Miller, without regard to this occurrence, ad- 
vanced steadily, and gallantly, to his object, and carried 
the height, and the cannon. Gen. Ripley brought up the 
23d (which had also faultered,) to his support, and the 
enemy disappeared from before them. The 1st regiment 
was now brought into line, on the left of the 21st and the 
detachments of the 17th and 19th, Gen. Porter occupying, 



223 

with his command, the extreme left — about the time Col. 
Miller carried the enemy's cannon. 

The 25th regiment, under Major Jessup, was engaged 
in a more obstinate contest, with all that remained to dis- 
pute with us the field of battle. The Major, as has been 
already stated, had been ordered by General Scott, at 
the commencement of the action, to take ground to the 
right ; he had succeeded in turning the enemy's left flank 
— had captured (by a detachment under Capt. Ketchum,) 
Gen. Riall, and sundry other officers — and showed him- 
self again, to his own army, in a blaze of fire, which de- 
feated or destroyed a very superior force of the enemy. 
He was ordered to form on the riffht of the 2d recjiment. 
The enemy, rallying his forces, and, as is believed, having 
received reinforcements, now attempted to drive us from 
our position, and regain his artillery ; our line was unsha- 
ken, and the enemy repulsed ,• two other attempts, hav- 
ing the same object, had the same issue — Gen. Scott was 
again engaged, in repelling the former of these ; and the 
last I saw of him, on the field of battle, he was near the 
head of his column, and giving, to its march, a direction 
that would have placed him on the enemy's right. It was 
with great pleasure I saw the good order and intrepidity 
of Gen. Porter's volunteers, from the moment of their ar- 
rival ; but, during the last charge of the enemy, those 
qualities were conspicuous — stimulated by the example 
set them by their gallant leader, by Major Wood, of the 
Pennsylvania corps, by Col. Dobbin, of New-York, and 
by their officers generally, they precipitated themselves 
upon the enemy's line, and made all the prisoners which 
were taken at this point of the action. 

Having been for some time wounded, and being a good 
deal exhausted by loss of blood, it became my wish to de- 
volve the command on Gen. Scott, and retire from the 
field ; but, on enquiry, I had the misfortune to learn that 
he was disabled by wounds ; I therefore kept my post, 
and had the satisfaction of seeing the enemy's last effort 
repulsed — I now consigned the command to General 
Ripley. 

While retiring from the field, I saw and felt that the 



223 

victory was complete on our part, if proper measures were 
promptly adopted to secure it. The exhaustion of the 
men was, however, such as made some refreshment neces- 
sary ; they particularly required water — I was, myself, 
extremely sensible of the want of this necessary article; I 
therefore believed it proper that Gen. Ripley, and the 
ti oops should return to camp, after bringing otf the dead, 
the wounded and the artillery ; and, in this, I saw no dif- 
ficulty, as the enemy had entirely ceased to act. Within 
an hour after my arrival in camp, I was informed that Gen. 
Ripley had returned, without annoyance, and in good or- 
der. I now sent for him ; and, after giving him my rea- 
sons for the measure I was about to adopt, ordered him 
to put the troops in the best possible condition ; to give 
to them the necessary refreshment ; to take with him the 
picquets and camp guards, and every other description of 
force; to put himself on the field of battle as the day 
dawned, and there to meet and beat the enemy, if he ap- 
peared — to this order he made no objection, and I relied 
upon its execution ; — it was not executed. I feel, most 
sensibly, how inadequate are my powers in speaking of 
the troops, to do justice either to their merits, or to my 
own sense of them — under able direction they might have 
done more, and better. 

From the preceding detail, you have new evidence of 
the distinguished gallantry of Generals Scott and Porter, 
of Col. Miller, and Major Jessup. 

Of the 1st brigade, the chief, with his aid-de-camp. 
Worth, his Major of brigade, Smith, and every command- 
er of battalion, were wounded. The 2d brio-ade suffered 
less ; but, as a brigade, their conduct entitled them to the 
applause of their country. After the enemy's strong po- 
sition had been carried by the 21st, and detachments of 
the 17th and 19th, the 1st and 23d assumed a new cha- 
racter — they could not, again, be shaken or dismayed. 
Major M'Farland, of the latter, fell nobly at the head of 
his battalion. Under the command of Gen. Porter, the 
militia volunteers, of Pennsylvania and New-York, stood 
undismayed, amidst their hottest fire, and repulsed the 
veterans opposed to them. The Canadian volunteers. 



224 

commanded by Col. Wilson, are reported by Gen. Porter, 
as having merited and received his approbation. The 
corps of artillery, commanded by Major Hindman, be- 
haved with its usual gallantry. Capt. Towson's compa- 
ny, attached to the 1st brigade, was the first and the last 
engaged ; and, during the whole conflict, maintained that 
high character, which they had previously won by their 
skill and their valor. Captains Biddle and Ritchie were 
both wounded early in the action, but refused to quit the 
field; the latter declared that he never would leave his 
piece — and, true to his engagement, fell by its side, co- 
vered with wounds. 

The staff of the army had its peculiar merit and dis- 
tinction — Col. Gardner, Adj. Gen. though ill, was on 
horseback, and did all in his power; his assistant. Major 
Jones, was very active and useful ; my gallant aids-de- 
eamp, Austin and Spencer, had many, and critical, duties 
to perform — in the discharge of which, the latter fell : — I 
shall ever think of this young man, with pride and regret 
— regret, that his career has been so short ; pride, that it 
has been honorable and distinguished. The engineers, 
Majors M'Rea and Wood, were greatly distinguished on 
this day, and their high military talents, exerted with 
great effect ; they were much under my eye, and near my 
person — and, to their assistance, a great deal is fairly to 
be ascribed ; I most earnestly recommend them, as wor- 
thy of the highest trust and confidence. 

The staff of Generals Ripley and Porter discovered 
great zeal, and attention to duty. Lieut. E. B. Randolph, 
of the 20th, is entitled to notice — his courage was conspi- 
cuous. 

I enclose a return of our loss ; those noted as missing 
may generally be numbered with the dead. The enemy 
had but little opportunity of making prisoners. 
1 have the honor, &c. 

Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. War. JACOB BROWN. 

Return of killed, wounded and missings in the above 

action. — Killed, 171— .Wounded, 570 — Missing, 117 

Total, 858. C. K. GARDNER, Adj. Gen. 



225 

JRelurn of prisoners, taken from the enemy in the alove 
action, viz. — 1 Major General, (Riall) — 1 Aid (to Lt. Gen. 
Drummond) — 6 Captains — 11 Subaltems — 150 rank and 
file— Total 169. AZ. ORNE, Assist. Insp. Gen. 

The British official account of the above action makts 
their loss as follows, viz. — Killed, 84 — Wounded, 559, — 
Missing, 1 93--Prisoners, 42— Total, 878. 

(Signed) ED. BAYNES. 



AFFAIR OF BLADENSBURGH. 

Copy of a Utter from Brig. General Winder, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

Baltimore., August 27, 1814. 

SIR — When the enemy arrived at the mouth of the Po- 
tomac, of all the militia which I had been authorized to 
assemble, there were but about 1700 in the field — from 
13 to 1400 under Gen. Stansbury, near this place, a:id 
about 250 at Bladensburgh, under Lieut. Col. Kraramer. 
The slow progress of draft, and the imperfect orgaiiiza- 
tion, with the ineffectiveness of the laws to compel them 
to turn out, rendered it impossible to have procured 
more. 

The militia of this state, and of the contiguous parts 
of Virginia and Pennsylvania, were called on, en masr,e ; 
but the former militia law of Pennsylvania had expired, 
the 1st of June or July, and the one adopted in its place 
is not to take effect, in organizing the mihtia, before Oc- 
tober ; no aid, therefore, has been received from that 
state. 

After all the force that could be put at my disposal in 
that short time, and making such dispositions as I deemed 
best calculated to present the most respectable force, at 
■whatever point the enemy might strike, 1 was enabled, by 
the most active and harassing movements of the troops, 
to interpose before the enemy, at Bladensburgh, about 
5000 men, including 3.50 regulars, and Commodore Bar- 
ney's command ; — much the largest portion of this force 
arrived on the arround when the enemy were in sight, and 

F f 



226 

were disposed of to support, in the best manner, the posi- 
tion which Gen. Stansbury had taken. Thej had barely 
reached the ground when the action commenced, which 
was about 1 o'clock, P. M. of the 24th instant — and con- 
tinued about an hour.r The contest was not as obstinately 
maintained as could have been desired ; but was, by parts 
of the troops, sustained with great spirit, and with pro- 
difijious effect ; and, had the whole of our force been 
equally firm, I am induced to believe that the enemy 
would have been repulsed, notwithstanding all the disad- 
vantages under which we fought. — The artillery, from 
Baltimore, supported by Major rinckney's rifle battalion, 
and a part of Capt. Doughty's, from the navy-yard, were 
in advance, to command the pass of the bridge, at Bla- 
densburgh, and played upon the enemy, as I have since 
learned, w ith very destructive effect. But the rifle troops 
were obliged, after some time, to retire ; and, of course, 
^he artillery. Superior numbers, however, rushed upon 
Ihem, and made their retreat necessary ; not, however, 
without great loss from the enemy. Major Pinckney re- 
ceived a severe wound in his right arm, after he had re- 
tired to the left flank of Stansbury's brigade. The right 
and centre of Stansbury's brigade, consisting of Lieut. 
Col. Hagan's and Shuler's regiments, generally gave way 
very soon afterwards, with the exception of about 40, ral- 
lied by Col. Ragan, after having lost his horse, and the 
whole, or a part of Capt. Shower's company — both of 
whom Gen. Stansbury represents to have made, even thus 
deserted, a gallant stand. The fall which Lieut. Col. 
Ragan received, from his horse, together with his great 
efforts to sustain his position, rendered him unable to fol- 
low the retreat : we have, therefore, to lament, that this 
gallant and excellent officer has been taken prisoner; he 
has, however, been paroled ; and I met him here, reco- 
vering from the bruises occasioned by his fail. 

The 5th Baltimore regiment, under Lieut. Col. Sterretty 
being the left of Gen. Stansbury's brigade, still, however, 
stood their ground ; and, except for a moment, when part 
f>f them recoiled a few steps, remained finn, and stood un- 



227 

til ordered to retreat, with a view to prevent them from 
being outflanked. 

The reserve, under Brig. Gen. Smitli, of the District of 
Columbia, with the militia of the city and Georgetown, 
with the regulars and some detachments of Maryland mi- 
litia, flanked on their- right by Commodore Barney, and 
his brave fellows, and Lieut. Col. Beall, still were to the 
right, on the hill, and mainttiined the contest for some 
lime, with great eflcct. 

It is not with me to report the conduct of Commodore 
Barney, and his command ; nor can I speak from observa- 
tion, loo rennote ; but the concurrent testimony, of ail 
who did observe them, does them the highest justice, 
for their brave resistance, and destructive effect they 
pioduced on the enemy. Commodore Barney, alter 
having lost his horse, took post near one of his guns ; 
and tbere^ unfortunately, received a severe wound in 
the thio;h, and he also fell into the hands of the enemy. 
Capt. Vliller, of the marines, was wounded in the arm, 
lighting bravely. From the best intelligence, there re- 
mains but little doubt, that the enemy lost, at least, 
400, killed and wounded ; and, of these, a very unusu- 
al portion killed. Our loss cannot, I think, be estima- 
ted at more than from 30 to 40 killed, and 50 to 60 
wounded. They took, altogether, about 120 pri- 
soners. 

You will readily understand, that it is impossible for 
me to speak, minutely, of the merit or demerit of par- 
ticular troops, so little known to me, from their recent 
and hasty assemblage My subsequent movements, 
for the purpose of preserving as much of my force as 
possible, gaining reinforcements, and protecting this 
place, you already know. 
I am, &c. 
W. H. WINDER, B. Gen. \QthM,D. 
Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec, War. 



228 
BATTLE AT FORT ERIE. 

Copies of letters from Brig. Gen. Gaines, to the Secretary of War, dated 
H. Q. Fort Erie, U. C. Avg. 23(1, 1814. 

vSTR — Loss of sleep, and constant exposure to the 
weather, in its various chanoes, gave me, some days 
ago, a violent cold, which has put it out of my power 
to do any thing more than the state of the service here 
rendered absolutely indispensable; hence my apology 
for d'^laying, until this day, my report of the battle of 
the 1 5th inst. 

General Drummond is quietly engaged, in collect- 
ing his reinforcements ; his camp appears to be forti- 
fied : I attempted to look at it, a few days past, and it 
cost me a fine young officer, Lieut. Yates, of the 4th 
rifle regiment, killed, and Lieut Kearsley, of that ex- 
cellent corps, with Lieut. Childs, of the 9lh, wounded ; 
vith the loss of some 2 or 3 privates killed, and 5 or 
6 woundnd. The loss of the enemy, 1 was unable to 
ascertain; he would not leave his defences, and I did 
not think fit to leave mine at all exposed. Several de- 
serters say, that the 6th and 82d regiments arrived last 
night — if this be true, their strength is about the same 
a:s it was before the.battle of the 15lh; their Col. Scott, 
is dead. About 20 deserters from the De Watteville 
regiment, and some few from other corps, concur in 
the report, that their loss in killed, wounded, and miss- 
ing, on the 15th, was upwards of a thousand. 
Your obedient servant, 

E. P. GAINES. B. Gen. Comg. 
Gen. Armstrong, Sec. War. 



DET AILE D RE PORT. 

H. Q. Left wing 2d Division, Fort Erie, U. C. Aug. 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor to communicate, for the in- 
formation of the department of war, the particulars of 
the battle fought at this place, on the 15th inst. between 



229 

the left wing of the 2d division of tlie northern army^ 
under my command, and the British forces in the Pen- 
insula of [T. C. commanded by Lieut. Gen. Drummond» 
which terminated in a signal victory, in favor of the 
United American arms. Our position, on the margin 
of the lake, at the entrance of the Niagara river, being 
nearly a horizontal plane, 12 or 15 feet above the sur- 
face of the water, possessing few natural advantages, 
had been strengthened in front, by temporary parapet 
breastworks, intrenchments, and abatlis, with two bat- 
teries and 6 field pieces. The small, untinished fort, 
Erie, with a 24, 18, and 12 prs. forms the N. E. — and 
the Douglass battery, with an 18, and 6 pr. near the 
edge of the lake, the S. E. angle of our right ; the left 
is defended by a redoubt battery, with 6 field pieces, 
just thrown up on a small ridge ; our rear was left open 
to the lake, bordered by a rocky shore of easy ascent ; 
the battery, on the left, was defended by Capt. Towson ; 
Fort Erie, by Capt. Williams, with Major Trimble's 
command, of the 19th infantry ; the batteries on the 
front, by Captains Biddle and Fanning ; the whole of 
the artillery commanded by Major Hindman. Partb 
of the 11th, 9th, and 22d infantry, (of the late veteran 
brigade of Maj. Gen. Scott,) were posted on the rights 
under the command of Lieut. Col. Aspinwall ; Gen. 
Kipley's brigade, consisting of the 21st and 23d, de- 
fended the left ; Gen. Porter's brigade, of New-York 
and Pennsylvania volunteers, with our distinguished 
riflemen, occupied the centre. 

I have, heretofore, omitted stating to you, that, dur- 
ing the 13th and 14th, the enemy had kept up a brisk 
cannonade, which was sharply returned from our bat- 
teries, without any considerable loss on our part ; at 
6, P. M. one of their shells lodged in a small magazine, 
in fort Erie, which was fortunately almost empty ; it 
blew up, with an explosion, more awful in its appear- 
ance than injurious in its effects, as it did not disable a 
man, or damage a gun. It occasioned but a momenta- 
ry cessation of the thunders of the artillery, on both 
sides ; it was followed by a loud and joyous shout of 



230 

the British arm} , which was instantly relumed on our 
part ; and Capl. Williams, amidst the smoke of the ex- 
plosion, renewed the contest by an animated roar of 
liis heavy cannon. 

From the supposed loss of our ammunition, and the 
consequent depression such an event was likely to pro- 
duce upon the minds of our men, I felt persuaded that 
this explosion would lead the enemy to assault, and 
made my arrangements accordingly — the annexed pa- 
per, INo. I. is a copy of Lieut. Gen. Drunnnond's plaa 
of attack. 

The night was dark, and, the early part of it, raining ; 
but the faithful centinel slept not: — 0[ie third of the 
troops were up at their posts. At half past 2 o'clock, 
the right column of the enemy approached ; and, 
though enveloped in darkness, black as his designs and 
principles, was distinctly heard on our left, andprojupt- 
\y marked by our musquetry, under Major Wood, and 
artillery, under Capt Towson. Being mounted at the 
moment, I repaired to the point of attack, where the 
sheet of fire, rolling from Towson's battery and the 
musquetry, of the left wing of the 2Ist infantry, under 
Major Wood, enabled me to see the enemy's column, 
of about 1500 men, approaching on that point ; his ad- 
vance was not checked, until it approached within 10 
feet of our infantry ; a line of loose brush, represent- 
ing an abattis, only intervened ; a column of the ene- 
my attempted to pass round the abattis, through the 
water, where it was nearly breast deep : appiehending 
that this point would be carried, I ordered a detach- 
ment of riflemen and infantry to its support ; but hav- 
ing met with the gallant commander, Major Wood, was 
assured by him that he could defend his position with- 
out reinforcements. 

At this moment the enemy were repulsed ; but in- 
stantly renewed the charge, and were again repulsed. 
My attention was now called to the right, where our 
batteries and lines were soon lighted by a most bril- 
liant fire, of cannon and musquetry ; it announced the 
approach of the centre and left columns of the enemy, 



231 

under Colonels Drummond and Scott — the latter wag, 
received by the veteran 9lb, under tlie command of 
Capt. Foster, and Captains Boughton and Harding's 
companies of New-\ ork and Pennsylvania volunteer?, 
aided by a 6 pr. judiciously posted by Major M'Rea, 
chief engineer, who was most active and useful at this 
point — they were repulsed. I'hat of the centre, led 
by Col. Drummond, was not long kept in check ; ii 
approached, at once, every assailable point of the fort, 
and, with scaling ladders, ascended the parapet, but 
was repulsed with dreadful carnage. Tlie assault was 
twice repeated, and as oflen checked; but the enemy, 
having moved round in the ditch, covered by darkness, 
added to the heavy cloud of smoke which had rolled 
from our cannon and musquetry, enveloping surroimd- 
ing objects, repealed the charge, re-ascended the lad- 
ders — their pikes, bayonets^ and spears, fell upon our 
gallant artillerists. The gallant spirits of our favorite, 
Capt. Williams, and Lieuts. M'Donough and VN'at- 
mough, with their brave men, were overcome — the two 
former, and several of their men, received deadly 
wounds — our bastion was lost. Lieut. M'Donough, 
being severely wounded, demanded quarter; it was 
refused by Col Drummond — the Lieutenant then seiz- 
ed a handspike, and nobly defended himself, until he 
was shot down with a pistol, by the monster who had 
refused him quarter ; who often reiterated the order, 
'■* give the damned yankees no Cjuarler." This ofHcer, 
whose bravery, if it had been seasoned with virtue, 
would have entitled him to the admiration of every 
soldier — this hardened murderer soon met his fate : 
he was shot through the breast by , of the re- 
giment, while repeating the order, to " give no quarter." 
The battle now raged with increased fury, on the right ; 
but on the left, the enemy was repulsed and put to 
flight ; thence, and from the centre, I ordered rein- 
forcements—they were promptly sent, by Brig. Gen. 
Ripley and Gen. Porter. Capt. Fanning, of the corp."? 
of artillery, kept a spirited and destructive fire, with 
bis field pieces, on the enemy attempting to approach 



232 

the fort. Major Hindman's gallant efforts, aided by 
Major Trimble, having failed to drive the enemy from 
the bastion, with the remaining artillery and infantry, 
in the forts, Capt. Bitdsall, of the 4th rifle regiment, 
with a detachment of riflemen, gallantly rushed in, 
through the gateway, to their assistance ; and, with 
some infantry, charged the enemy — but was repulsed, 
and the Captain severely wounded. A detachment 
from the 11th, 19th, and 22d infantry, under Capt. Fos- 
ter, of the lllh, \^ere introduced over the interior bas- 
tion, for the purpose of charging the enemy ; Major 
Hall, assistant Inspector-General, very handsomely ten- 
dered his services to lead the charge ; the charge was 
gallantly made by Capt. Foster, and Major Hall ; but 
owing to the narrowness of the passage up to the bas- 
tion, admitting only 2 or 3 men abreast, it failed : — it 
was often repeated, and as often checked. The ene- 
my's force in I lie bastion was, however, much cut to 
pieces, and diminished, by our artillery and small arms. 
At this moment, every operation was arrested by the 
explosion of some cartridges, deposited in the end of 
the stone building, adjoining the contested bastion— 
the explosion was tremendous — it Avas decisive — the 
bastion was restored. At this moment Capt. Biddle 
was ordered to cause a field piece to be posted, so as to 
enfilade the exterior plain and salient glacis. The 
Captain, though not recovered from a severe contusion 
in the shoulder, received from one of the enemy's shells, 
promptly took his position, and served his field piece 
with vivacity and elfect. Capt. Fanning's battery, 
likewise, played upon them, at this time, with great 
effect — the enemy were, in a few moments, entirely 
defeated, taken, or put to flight, leaving on the field 
221 killed, 174 wounded, and 186 prisoners — (581,) in- 
cluding 14 oflScers killed, and 7 wounded and prison- 
ers ; a large portion are so severely wounded that they 
cannot survive ; the slightly wounded, it is presumed, 
were carried off. 

To Brig. Gen. Ripley, much credit is due, for the 
judicious disposition of the left wing, previous to the 



233 

action, and for the steady disciplined couras^e mani- 
fested by bim, and bis immediate command ; and for 
tbe promptness witti vvbich be complied witb my orders, 
for reinforcement, during tbe action. Brig. Gen. Por- 
ter, cofnmanding tbe New- York and Pennsylvania vo- 
lunteers, manifested a degree of vigilance and judg- 
ment, in bis preparatory arrangements, as well as mili- 
tary skill and courage, in acti<in, whicb proves bim to 
be won by the confidence of bis country, and tbe brave 
volunteers who fought under bim. Of tbe volunteers. 
Captains Boughton and Harding, witb their detach- 
ments posted on the right, and attached to tbe line, 
commanded by Capt. E. Foster, of the veteran 9th in- 
fantry, handsomely contributed to the repulse of tbe 
left column of the enemy, under Col. Scott. 

1 be judicious preparations, and steady conduct of 
Lieut. Col. Aspinvvall, commanding tbe first brigade, 
merit approbation. To Major M'Hea, cliief engineer, 
tl>e greatest credit is due, for tbe excellent arrange- 
ment, and skilful execution of bis plans lor fortifying 
and defendino; the right, and for bis correct and season- 
able suggestions in regaining tbe bastion. Major 
Wood, of the engineers, also greatly conti ibuted to the 
previous measures of defence ; be had accepted the 
command of a regiment of infantry, (tbe 21st,) for 
which he has often proved himself well qualified, but 
never so conspicuously as on this occasion. 

Towson's battery emitted a constant sheet of fire — 
Wood's small arms lighted up tbe space, and repulsed 
five terrible charges, made between the battery and tbe 
lake. Brig. Gen. Kipley speaks in high terms of the 
officers and men engaged, particularly Captains Mars- 
ton and Ropes. Lieutenants Riddle, of tbe 15tb, (do- 
ing duty wirb the 21st,) and Hall; Ensigns Benn, 
Jones, ('ummings, and Thomas, of tbe 21st, and Real- 
ly and Green, of the 19tb. 

Major Hindman, and tbe whole of the artillery un- 
der the command of that excellent officer, displayed 
a degree of gallantry and good conduct, not to be sur- 
passed. Tbe particular situation of Capt. Towsod, and 

fig 



234 

the tiiuch lamented Captain VVilliams and Lieutenant 
M'Donough, and that of Lieut. Watmough, as aheady 
described, with their respective commands, rendered 
them most conspicuous. 7^he couracre and good con- 
duct of Lieut. Zantzino;er, and Lieut. Chiles, is spoken 
of in high terms, by Major Hindman and Captain Tow- 
son ; as also that of serjeant-major Denhon. Captains 
Biddle and Fanning, on the centre and right of their 
entrenchments, threw their shot to the right, left, and 
front, and annoyed the Indians, and light troops of the 
enemy, approaching from the woods. Lieut. Fontaine, 
in his zeal to meet the enemy, was unfortunately 
wounded, and made prisoner. Lieut. Bird was active 
and useful ; and, in fact, every individual of the corps 
did their duty. 

The detachment of Scott's gallant brigade, consist- 
ing of parts of the 9th, 1 1th, and 22d infantry, did its 
duty in a manner worthy the high reputation the bri- 
gade had acquired at Chippewa, and at the falls of Nia- 
gara. The 9th, under the command of Capt. E. Fos- 
ter, was actively engaged against the left of the enemy ; 
and, with the aid of Lieut. Douglass' corps of bombar- 
diers, commanding the Avater battery, and of that of 
the volunteers, under Captains Boughton and Harding, 
effected their repulse. The good conduct of Lieuts. 
Childs, Cushman, and Foote, and Ensign Blake, de- 
serves commendation. 

The officers killed, are Capt. Williams and Lieut. 
M'Donough, of the artillery — wounded, 6 other subal- 
tern officers, severely. 

Lieut. Fontaine, of the artillery, who was taken pri- 
soner, writes from the British camp, that he fortunate- 
ly fell into the hands of the Indians, who, after taking 
his money, treated him kindly — it would seem, then, 
that these savages had not joined in the resolution to 
give no quarters. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

E. P. GAINES, Brig. Gen. Comg. 
Hon. J. Armstrong, Sec. War. 



23.J 

Heturn of the killed, wounded^ and misssing, (Ame- 
ricans) in the above action,viz. — Killed, 17 — wounded, 
56 — missing, 11 — total 84. 

Jieport of the killed, wounded, and prisoners, taken at 
the battle of Erie, U. C. Aug. 15, 1 8 J4.— Killed, left on 
the field, 222 ; wounded, left on the field, 174 j prison 
ers taken, 186— total, 582. 

Two hundred, supposed to be killed, on the left 
flank, near Snake Hill, (in the water,) and permitted 
to float down the Niagara ; the number on the right 
flank, near the woods, could not be ascertained. 

NATHi,. N. HALL, Asst. Insp. Gen. 
Brig. Gen. E. P. Gaines. 

Adjutant-General Baynes' official account of the 
above, makes their loss between 900 and 1000. 



THE ADAMS DESTROYED. 

Copy of a letter from Capt. C. Morris, to the Secretary of tht 
Navy, dated 

Portland, Sep!. Hthy 1814. 

SIR — It is with regret that T inform you we were 
compelled to destroy the Adams, at Hampden, on the 
morning of the 3d inst. to prevent her falling into the 
hands of the enemy. All the officers effected their 
escape ; and I believe the crew, with the exception of 
very few, who were unable to travel : their precise 
number cannot yet be ascertained, as we were obliged 
to pursue different routes, for the purpose of obtaining 
provisions, through the woods, between the Penobscot 
and Kennebek. 

I am now engaged in collecting, and forwarding the 
men, with the utmost dispatch, to Portsmouth; from 
which place I hope sooo to forward a detailed account 



236 



of our proreedinfics. In the mean time, T request you 
to believe, that the otficers and crew of the ship ne- 
glected no mean-!, in their power, for her defence. 
I have the honor, &c, 

C. MORRIS. 
Hon. TV Jones., Sec. Navy. 



M'DONOUGH's VICTORY. 

Copy of a letter frotn Commodore M' Donoti^h, to the Secretary of the 

Navi/y dated 

IT. S. S. Saratoga, off Plattsburs, Sept. Htli, 1814. 

SIR — The Alniio;hty has been pleased to grant ns 

a signal victory, on Lake Champlain, in the capture of 

one frigate, one brig, and two sloops of war, of the 

enemy. 

I have the honor, &c. 

T. M'DONOUGH, Co7ng. 
Hon. W. Jones, Sec. Navy. 



DEFENCE OF FORT MOREAU. 

Copy of a letter from General Macomb, to the Secretary of War, dated 

Fort iMorean, Sept. 12, 1814. 

SII^ — I have the honor to inform you, that the Bri- 
tish army, consisting of four brigades, a corps of artil- 
lery, a squadron of horse, and a strong light corps, 
amounting, in all, to about fourteen thousand men, 
after investing this place, on the north of Saranac river, 
since the 5th inst. broke up their cauip, and raised the 
siege this morning, at 2 o'clock ; they are now retreat- 
ing precipitately, leaving their sick and v^ounded be- 
hind. The enemy opened his batteries yesterday morn- 
ing, and continued the cannonading, bombarding, and 
rocket-firing, until sunset ; by this time our batteries 
had completely silenced those of our opponents. 

The light troops, and militia, are now in full pursuit 



237 

of the enemy, making prisoners in all directions ; desert- 
ers are continually coming in, so that the loss of the Bri- 
tish army, in this enterprize, ^111 be considerable. 

A more detailed repoi t will be made of the siege, and 
circumstasices attending it, as soon as possible. 

The ofhcers, and men, have all done their duty. The 
artillery, and the en^'ineers, have performed their func- 
tions, with a zeal and precision highly creditable to them- 
selves, and honorable to their country. Our loss is 
triiiing, indeed ; having only 1 officer and 15 men killed, 
and 1 officer and SO mfen wounded. 

The militia of New-York, and volunteers of Vermont, 
have been exceedlna'ly serviceable, and have evinced a de- 
gree of patriotis;n, and bravery, worthy of themselves and 
the states to which thoy respectively belong. The 
stren.-;th of the garrison is only 1,500 effective men, rank 
and lile. 

I have the honor, &c. 

ALEX. MACOMB, 

Hon. Sec. War. 



VICTORY ON LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

Copt/ of a letter from George Beale, Jun. to Com. M^Donough, dated 

U. S. S. Sarntos^a, Sept. 13, 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor to enclose you a list of the kill- 
ed and wounded, on boaid of the different vessels, of the 
squadron under your command, in the action of the 11th 
instant. 

It is impossible to ascertain, correctly, the loss of the 
enemy ; from the best infoi mation received from the Bri- 
tish officers, from my own observations, and from various 
lists, found on board the Confiance, I calculate the num- 
ber of men, on board that ship at the commencement of 
the action, at 270, of whom, at least, 180 were killed and 
Wounded ; and, on board the other captured vessels, at 
least 80 more — making, in the whole, killed and wound- 
ed, 260. This is, doubtless, short of the real number, as 



238 

many were thrown overboard, from the Confiance, during 
the engagement. 

The muster-books must have been thrown overboard, 
or otherwise disposed of, as they are not to be found. 
I am, sir, &,c. 

GEO. BEALE, Jun. Purser. 
Thos. M'Donough, Comg. 



FURTHER, OF M'DONOUGH'S VICTORY. 

Copy of a letter from Com. M^Donough, to the Secretary of the 
Navy, dated 

U. S. S. Saratoga, Plattsburgh Bay, Sept. 13, 181 4^ 

SIR — I have the honor to give you the particulars of 
the action, which took place on the 11th instant on this 
lake. 

For several days the enemy were on their way to 
Plattsburgh, by land and water ; and it being well under- 
stood, that an attack would be made, at the same time, 
by their land and naval forces, I determined to await, at 
anchor, the approach of the latter. 

At 8 o'clock, A. M. the look-out boat announced the 
approach of the enemy — at 9, he anchored in a line, 
ahead, at about 300 yards distance from my line — his 
ship opposed to the Saratoga, hjs brig to the Eagle, his 
gallies, (13 in number,) to the schooner, sloop, and a di- 
vision of our gallies ; one of his sloops assisting their ship 
and brig, the other assisting their gallies — our remaining 
gallies, with the Saratoga and Eagle. 

In this situation, the whole force, on both sides, became 
engaged ; the Saratoga suffering much, from the heavy 
fire of the Confiance. 1 could perceive, at the same time, 
however, that our fire was very destructive to her. The 
Ticonderoga, Lieut. Comdt. Cassin, gallantly sustained 
her full share of the action. 

At half past 10 o'clock, the Eagle, not being able to 
bring her guns to bear, cut her cable, and anchored in a 
more eligible position, between my ship and the Ticon- 



239 

deroga, where she very much annoyed the enemy, but 
unfortunately leaving me exposed to a galling fire from 
the enemy's brig. Our guns, on the starboard side, be- 
ing nearly all dismounted, or not manageable, a stern an- 
chor was let go, the bower cable cut, and the ship wind- 
ed with a tresh broadside on the enemy's ship, which soon 
after surrendered. Our broadside was then sprung, to 
bear on the brig, which surrendeied in about 15 minutes 
after. 

The sloop, that was opposed to the Eagle, had struck 
some time before, and drilted down the line ; the sloop, 
which was with their gallies, having struck also. Three 
of their gallies are said to be sunk ; the others pulled off. 
Our gallies were about obeying, with alacrity, the signal 
to follow them, when all their vessels were reported, to 
me, as being in a sinking state ; it then became necessary 
to annul the signal, to the gallies, and order their men to 
the pumps. 

I could only look at the enemy's gallies going off, in a 
shattered condition; for there was not a mast, in either 
squadron, that could stand to make sail on; the lower 
rigging being nearly all shot away, hung down as though 
it nad been just placed over the mast-heads. 

The Saratoga had 55 round shot in her hull ; the Con- 
fiance 105. The enemy's shot passed, principally, just 
over our heads, as there were not 20 whole hammocks in 
the nettings, at the close of the action, which lasted, with- 
out intermission, two hours and tAventy minutes. 

The absence, and sickness of Lieut. Raymond Perry, 
left me without the services of that excellent officer; much 
ought fairly to be attributed to him, for his great care, 
and attention, in disciplining the ship's crew^, as her first 
Lieutenant ; his place was filled by a gallant young offi- 
cer, Lieut. Peter Gamble, who, I regret to inform you. 
was killed early in the action. Acting Lieut. Vallette 
worked the 1st and 2d divisions of guns, with able effect. 
Sailing-master Brum's attention to the sprins^s, and in tho 
execution of the order to wind the ship, and occasionalh 
at the guns, meets with my entire approbation ; also Capt. 
Yonngs, commanding the actino; marines, who took his 



240 

men to the guns. Mr. Eeale, Purser, was of great ser- 
vice at the guns, and in carrjins^ my orders throu^jhout 
the ship, with Midshipman Montgomeiy. Master's mate, 
Joshua Justin, had command of" the third division ; his 
conduct, during the action, was that of a brave and cor- 
rect officer. Midshipmen Monteath, Graham, Wilham- 
son, PJatt, Theving, and acting Midshipman Baldwin, all 
behaved well, and fjave evidence of their makins: valuable 
officers. 

The Saratoga was twice set on fire, bj hot shot from 
the enemj's ship. 

I close, sir, this communication with feelinofs of sfrati- 
tude, for the able support I received from every officer 
and man attached to the squadron, which I have the hon- 
or to command. 

I have the honor, &c. 

T. M'DONOUGH. 
Hon. W. Jones, Sec. Navy. 

Relurn of killed and wounded., on hoard the U. States 
squadron, in the above action. — Killed, 52; wounded, 58 — 
total, 1 10. Our force amounted to 86 guns — that of the 
enemy to 95 guns. 

SORTIE NEAR FORT ERIE. 

Copy of a letter from Major-General Brown, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

H. Q. Fort Erie, Sept. 18, 1814. 

SIR — I have the satisfaction to announce to you a bril- 
liant achievement, yesterday etfected by the forces under 
my command. A sortie was made upon the enemy's bat- 
teries — these were carried ; we blew up his principal 
work, destroyed his battering pieces, and captured 400 
prisoners. The enemy resisted our assault with firmness, 
but suffered greatly — his total loss cannot be less than 
800 men. 



241 

In such a business, we could not but expect to lose 
many valuable lives; they were offered up a voluntary 
sacrifice to the safety and honor of this army and nation. 
I will forward to you the particulars of this splendid af- 
fair, with a return of the killed and wounded, in the 
course of a few days. 

Very respectfully, &:c. 

JACOB BROWN. 
Hon. Sec. of War. 



GEN. MACOMB'S DETAILED REPORT. 

Copy of a letter from Brig. Gen. Macomb, to the Secretary of War, dated 
H. Q. Flattshurghy Sept. 15, 1814. 

SIR — I have the honor to communicate, for the informa- 
tion of the war department, the particulars of the advance 
of the enemy into the territory of the U. States, the cir- 
cumstances attending the siege of Plattsburgh, and the 
defence of the posts entrusted to my charge. 

The Governor-General of the Canadas, Sir George 
Prevost, having collected all the disposable force of Low- 
er Canada, with a view of conquering the country as far 
as Crown-point and Ticonderoga, entered the territory of 
the U. States, on the first of the month, and occupied the 
village of Champlain — there avowed his intentions, and 
issued orders and proclamations, tending to dissuade the 
people from their allegiance, and inviting them to furnish 
his army with provisions. He immediately began to im- 
press the waggons, and teams, in the vicinity, and loaded 
them with his heavy baggage and stores ; from this, I was 
persuaded he intended to attack this place. I had but 
just returned from the lines, where I had commanded a 
fine brigade, which was broken up to form the division of 
Maj. Gen. Izard, ordered to the westward. Being senior 
officer, he left me in command ; and, except the four com- 
panies of the 6th regiment, I had not an organized batta- 
lion among those remaining ; the garrison was composed 
of convalescents, and the recruits of the new regiments — 
all in the greatest confusion, as well as the ordnance and 
stores, and the works in no state of defence. To create 

H h 



242 

an cniulatloii and zeal, among the officers and men, in 
completing the works, I divided them into detachments, 
and placed them near the several forts — declaring, in or- 
ders, that each detachment was the garrison ol its own 
work, and bound to defend it to the last extremity. 

The enemv advanced cautiously, and by short marches, 
and our soldieis worked day and night;' so that, by the 
time he made his appearance before the place, we were 
i)repared to receive him. 

Gen. Izard named the principal work Fort Moreau ; 
and, to remind the troops of the actions of their brave 
countrymen, I called the redoubt, on tlie right, fort Brown ; 
and that on the left, fort Scott ; besides these three works, 
we have two block-houses, strongly fortified. 

Finding, on examining the returns of the garrison, that 
our force did not exceed fifteen hundred men for duty, 
and well informed that the enemy had as many thousand, 
I called on Gen. Mooers, of the New-York militia, and 
arranged, with him, plans for bringing forth the militia, eii 
masse. The inhabitants of the village fled, with their fa- 
milies and effects, except a few worthy citizens, and some 
boys, who formed themselves into a party, received rifles, 
and were exceedingly useful. 

By the 4th of the month. Gen. Mooers collected about 
700 mihtia, and advanced 7 miles on the Beekman Town 
road, to watch the motions of the enemy, and to skirmish 
with him as he advanced — also, to obstruct the roads with 
fallen trees, and to break up the bridges. On the lake 
road, at Dead-creek bridge, 1 posted 200 men, under 
Capt. Sproul, of the 13th regiment, with orders to abattis 
(he woods, to place obstructions in the road, and to fortify 
himself; to this party I added two field pieces. In ad- 
vance of that position, was Lieut. Col. Appling, with 110 
riflemen, watching the movements of the enemy, and pro- 
curing intelligence. It was ascertained that, before day- 
light on the 6th, the enemy would advance in two columns, 
on the tw o roads before mentioned, dividing at Sampson's, 
a little below Chazy village. The column, on the Beek- 
man Town road, proceeded most rapidly; the militia 
skirmished with their advanced parties, and, except a few 



243 

brave men, fell back most precipitately in the greatest dis- 
order, notwithstanding the British troops did not deign to 
fire on them, except by their Hankers and advanced pa- 
troles. The night previous, I ordered Major Wool to ad- 
vance, with a detachment of 250 men, to support the mi- 
litia, and set them an example of firmness ; also Captain 
Leonard, of the light artillery, was directed to proceed 
with two pieces, to be on the ground before day — yet he 
did not make his appearance until 8 o'clock, when tlie 
enemy had approached within two miles of the viliage ; 
with his conduct, therefore, 1 am not well pleased. Major 
Wool, with his party, disputed the road with great obsti- 
nacy, but the militia could not be prevailed on to stand, 
notwithstandins: the exertions of tlie General, and staff 
officers, although the fields were divided by strong stoiie 
walls, and they were told that the enemy could not possi- 
bly cut them off. The state dragoons, of New- York, 
wear red coats; and, they beino; on the heio-Iits to watch 
the enemy, gave constant alarm to the militia, wlio mistook 
them for the enemy, and fearing his getting ia their rear. 
Finding the enemy's columns had penetrated within a 
mile of Plattsburgh, I dispatched my aid-de-camp, Lieut. 
Root, to bring off the detachment at Dead-creek, and to 
inform Lieut. Col. Appling that I wished him to fall on the 
enemy's right flank ; the Colonel fortimately arrived just 
in time to save his retreat, and to fall in with the head of 
a column debouching from the woods ; here he poured in 
a destructive fire from his riflemen at rest, and continitod 
to annoy the column until he formed a junction with Major 
Wool. The field pieces did considerable execution among 
the enemy's columns. So undaunted, however, was the 
enemy, that he never deployed in his whole march., al- 
ways pressing on In column. Finding that every road 
was full of troops, crowding on us on all sides, I ordered 
the field pieces to retire across the bridge, and form a bat- 
tery for its protection, and to cover the retreat of the in- 
fantry, which was accordingly done, and the parties of 
Appling and Wool, as well as that of Sproul, retired al- 
ternately, keeping up a brisk fire, until they got under co- 
ver of the works. The enemy's light troops occupied 



244 

the houses near the bridge, and kept up a constant firing 
from the windows and balconies, and annoyed us much — 
I ordered them to be driven out Avith hot shot, which soon 
put the houses in flames, and obhged these sharp-shoot- 
ers to retire. The whole day, until it was too late to see, 
the enemy's light troops endeavored to drive our guards 
from the bridge ; but they suffered dearly for their per- 
severance. An attempt was also made to cross the upper 
bridge, where the militia handsomely drove them back. 
The column which marched by the lake road, was 
much impeded by obstructions, and the removal of the 
bridge at Dead-creek ; and, as it passed the creek and 
beach, the gallies kept up a lively and galling fire. 

Our troops beinor now all on the south side of the Sara- 
nac, I directed the planks to be taken off the bridges, and 
piled up in the form of breast-works, to cover our parties 
mtended for disputing the passage, which afterw^ards ena- 
bled us to hold the bridges against very superior numbers. 
From the 7th to the 11th, the enemy was employed in 
getting his battering train, and erecting his batteries and 
approaches, and constantly skirmishing at the bridges 
and fords. By this time, the militia of New-York, and 
volunteers from Vermont, were pouring in from all quar- 
ters. I advised Gen Mooers to keep his force along the 
Saranac, to prevent the enemy crossing the river, and to 
send a strong body in his rear, to harrass him day and 
night, and keep him in continual alarm. The militia be- 
haved with great spirit after the first day, and the volun- 
teers from Vermont were exceedingly serviceable. Our 
regular troops, notwithstanding the constant skirmishing, 
and repeated endeavors of the enemy to cross the river, 
kept at their work, day and night, strengthening their 
defences, and evinced a determination to hold out to the 
last extremity. 

It was reported that the enemy only awaited the arri- 
val of his flotilla, to make a general attack. About 8, on 
the morning of the 11th, as was expected, the flotifla 
appeared in sight, round Cumberland Head, and at 9, bore 
down and engaged our flotilla, at anchor, in the bay, off 
this town. At the same instant, the batteries were opened 



245 

oa us, and continued throwing bomb-shells, shrapnells, 
balls, and Congreve rockets, until sun-set, when the bom- 
bardment ceased ; every battery of the enemy being si- 
lenced by the superiority of our fire. The naval engage- 
ment lasted 2 hours, in full view of both armies; three 
efforts were nadc, by the enemy, to pass the river at the 
commencement of the cannonade and bombardment, with 
a view of assaulting the works, and had prepared for that 
purpose an immense number of scaling ladders ; one at- 
tempt was made to cross at the village bridge ; another 
at the upper bridge ; and a third, at a ford, about three 
miles from the woiks ; — at the tw o first he was repulsed 
by the regulars ; at the ford, by the brave volunteers and 
militia — where he suifered severely in killed, wounded^ 
and prisoners, a considerable body having passed the 
str'r':m, but were either killed, taken, or driven back. — 
The woods, at this place, were very favorable to the ope- 
rations of our militia; a whole company of the 76th regi- 
ment w^as here destroyed — the three Lieutenants, and 27 
men, prisoners; the Captain, and the rest, killed. 

I cannot forego the pleasure of here stating the gallant 
conduct of Captain M'GIassin, of the 15th regiment, who 
was ordered to ford the river, and attack a party con- 
structing a battery on the right of the enemy's line, with- 
in 500 yards of fort Brown — which he handsomely exe- 
cuted, at midnio;ht, with 50 men ; drove oif the working 
party, consisting of 150, and defeated a covering party ot 
the same number — killing one officer, and 6 men, in the 
charge, and wounding many. At dusk, the enemy with- 
drew his artillery from the batteries, and raised the siege; 
and, at 9, under cover of the night, sent oif all the heavy 
baggage he could find transport for, and also his artillery 
— at 2, the next morning, the whole army precipitately 
retreated, leaving the sick and wounded to our generosi- 
ty, and the Governor left a note with a surgeon, request- 
ing the humane attention of the commanding General. 
Vast quantities of provision were left behind, and destroy- 
ed; also, an immense quantity of bomb-shells, cannon 
balls, grape shot, ammunition, flints, &c. &c. ; intrenching 
tools of all sorts, also tents, and marquees. A great quan- 



246 

t'lty has been tound in the ponds and creeks, and buried in 
the ground — and a vast quantity carried oflf by the inhabi- 
tants. Such was the precipitance of his retreat, that he 
arrived at Chazy, a distance of 8 miles, before we had dis- 
covered he had gone. The hght troops, volunteers, and 
militia, pursued immediately, on learning his flight; and 
some of the mounted men made prisoners 5 dragoons, of 
the 19th, and several others of the rear guard. A conti- 
nued fall of rain, and a violent storm, prevented further 
pursuit. Upwards of 300 deserters have come in, and 
many are hourly arriving. 

The conduct of the officers, non-commissioned officers, 
and soldiers, of my command, during this trying occasion, 
cannot be represented in too high terms ; and 1 (eel it my 
duty to recommend, to the particular notice of govern- 
ment, Lieut. Col. Appling, of the 1st rifle corps; Major 
Wool, of the 29th ; Major Totten, of the corps of engi- 
neers ; Captain Brooks, of the artillery ; Captain M'Glas- 
sin, of the 15th; Lieutenants De Russy and Trescott, of 
the corps of engineers ; Lieutenants Smyth, Mountford, 
and Cromwell, of the artillery ; also, my aid, Lieut. Root, 
who have all distinguished themselves, by their uncom- 
mon zeal and activity, and have been greatly instrumen- 
tal in producing the happy and glorious result of the 
siege. 

I have the honor, &c. 

ALEX. MACOMB. 

The loss of the enemy, in killed, wounded, prisoners, 
and deserters, since his first appearance, cannot fall short 
of 2,500, including many officers, among whom is Colonel 
Wellington, of the Buffs. 

Rtturn of killed and wounded., on the American side, 
durins^ the skirmishing and bombardment above described: 
Killed, 37 — wounded, 66 — missing, 20 — total, 123. 

The principal officers of the British army, under Sir 
G. Prevost, are named by Gen. Macomb in the above ac- 
count ; and the particular description of forces, how many 
of each kind, and the aggregate — which amounts to 
FOURTEEN THOUSAND. 



247 
BATTLE NEAR BALTIMORE. 

^'opy of a letter from Maj. General Smith, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

H.Q. Baltimore, Sept. 19, 1(]14. 

SIR — In compliance with the promise contained in my 
letter ol' the 15th inst. I have now the honor of stating-, 
that the enemy landed between 7 and 8000 men on Mon- 
day the 12th inst. at North Point, 14 miles distant from 
this town. Anticipating this debarkation, Gen. Strieker 
had been detached, on Sunday evening, with a portion of 
liis brigade, on the North Point road. Major Randal, of 
the Baltimore comity militia, having under his command a 
light corps of riflemen, and musquetry, taken from Gen. 
Stansbury's brigade, and the Pennsylvania volunteers, was 
detached to the mouth of Bear Creek, with orders to co- 
operate with Gen. Strieker, and to check any landing 
which the enemy might attempt in that quarter. On 
Monday, Brig. Gen. Strieker took a good position, at the 
junction of the two roads, leading from this place to North 
Point, having his right flanked by Bear Creek, and his 
left by a marsh ; he here awaited the approach of the 
enemy, having sent on an advanced corps, under the com- 
mand of Major Heath, of the 5th regiment. Tliis advance 
was met by that of the enemy, and after some skirmishino-, 
it returned to the line, the main.bodv of the enemy beino- 
but a short distance in rear of their advance. Between 
2 and 3 o'clock, the enemy's whole force came up, and 
commenced the battle by some discharges of rockets, 
which were succeeded by the cannon, from both sides, 
and soon after, the action became general through the 
line. Gen. Strieker gallantly maintained his ground 
against a great superiority of numbers, during the space 
of an hour and 20 minutes ; when, the regiment on his 
left (the 51st) giving way, he was under the necessity of 
retiring to the ground in his rear, where he had stationed 
one regiment as a reserve. He here formed his brigade ; 
but the enemy not thinking it advisable to pursue, he, in 
compliance with previous arrangements, fell back, and 



248 

took pobt on the left of my entrenchments, and a half 
mile in advance of them. 

In this aifair, the citizen soldiers of Baltimore, with the 
exception of the 51st regiment, have maintained the repu- 
tation they so deservedly acquired at Bladensburgh ; and 
theirbrave, and skilful leader has confirmed the confidence, 
which we had all so justly placed in him. I take the liberty 
of referring you to his letter, for the more particular men- 
tion of the individuals, who, new to warfare, have shown 
the coolness and valor of veterans ; and who, by their con- 
duct on this occasion, have given their country, and their 
city, an assurance of what may be expected from them, 
when their services are again required. I cannot dismiss 
tlie subject without expressing the heartfelt satisfaction I 
experience, in thus bearing testimony to the courage and 
good conduct of my fellow-townsmen. About the time 
Gen. Strieker had taken the ground just mentioned, he 
was joined by Brig. Gen. Winder, who had been stationed 
on the west side of the city ; but was now ordered to 
march with Gen. Douglass' brigade of Virginia militia, and 
the U. States dragoons, under the command of Captain 
Bird, and take post on the left of Gen. Strieker. During 
these movements, the brigades of Generals Stansbury and 
Foreman, the seamen and marines, under Com. Rodgers. 
the Pennsylvania volunteers, under Colonels Cobean and 
Findley, the Baltimore artillery, under Col. Harris, and 
the marine artillery, under Capt. Stiles, manned the trench- 
es and the batteries, all prepared to receive the enemy — 
we remained in this situation during the night. 

On Tuesday, the enemy appeared before my entrench- 
ments, at the distance of two miles, on the Philadelphia 
road, from whence he had a full view of our position. 

He manoeuvred, during the morning, towards our left, 
as if with intention of making a circuitous march, and 
coming down on the Harford or York roads. Generals 
Winder and Strieker were directed to adapt their move- 
ments to those of the enemy, so as to baffle this supposed 
intention ; they executed this order with great skill and 
judgment, by taking an advantageous position, stretching 
from my left across the country, where the enemy was 



249 

likely to approach the quarter he seemed to threaten ; — ■ 
this movement induced the enemy to concentrate his for- 
ces (between 1 and 2 o'clock) in my front, pushing his 
advance to within a mile of us, driving in our videttes, and 
showing an intention of attacking us that evening. I im- 
mediately drew Generals Winder and Strieker nearer to 
the left of my intrenchments, and to the right of the ene- 
my, with an intention of their falling on his right, or rear, 
should he attack me ; or, if he declined it, of attacking 
him in the morning. 

To this movement, and to the strength of my defences, 
(which the enemy had the fairest opportunity of observ- 
ing) I am induced to attribute his retreat, which was com- 
menced at half past 1 o'clock, on Wednesday mornin{j — 
in this he was so favored, by the extreme darkness and 
continued rain, that we did not discover it until day-light. 
I consented to Gen. Winder's pursuing, with the Virginia 
brigade and the U. States dragoons; at the same time 
Major Randal was dispatched, with his light corps, in 
pursuit, on the enemy's right, whilst the whole of the mi- 
litia cavalry was put in motion for the same object. All 
the troops were, however, worn out with continued watch- 
ing, and with being under arms three days and nights, 
exposed, a greater part of the time, to very inclement 
weather, that it was found impracticable to do any thing 
more than pick up a few stragglers. The enemy com- 
menced his embarkation tliat evening, and completed it 
the next day at 1 o'clock; it would have been impossible, 
even had our troops been in a condition to act offensively, 
to have cut off any part of the enemy's rear guard during 
the embarkation, as the point where it was effected was 
defended from our approach by a line of defences, extend- 
ing from Back-river to Humphy's Creek, on the Patapsco, 
throvv'n up by ourselves, previous to their arrival. I have 
now the pleasure of calling your attention to the brave 
commander of Fort M'Henry, Major Armistead, and to 
the operations confined to that quarter. The enemy made 
his approach by water, at the same time he did by land, 
and commenced a discharge of bombs and rockets at the 

T i 



250 

ibrt, as soon as he came within range of it. The situation 
of Major Aniiistead was pt culiarly trying, the enemy 
having taken his position at such a distance as to ren- 
der oifensive operations, on the })art of the fort, entire- 
ly fruitless, whilst their bombs and rockets were every 
moment falling in and about it; the otficers and men 
being at the same time entirel} exposed. The vessels, 
however, had the temerity to approach somewhat near- 
er — they were soon compelled to withdraw. 

During the night, whilst the enemy on land was re- 
treating, and whilst the bombardment was the most se- 
vere, two or three rocket-vessels, and barges, succeed- 
ed in getting up the ferry branch ; but they were soon 
compelled to retire, by the forts in that Cjuarter, com- 
manded by Lieut. Newcomb, of the navy, and Lieut. 
Webster, of the flotilla — these boats also destroyed 
one of the barges, with all on board ; the barges and 
battery, at the Lazaretto, under the command of Lieut. 
Rutter, of the flotilla, kept up a brisk, and it is believ- 
ed a successful fire, during the hottest period of the 
bombardment. Major Armistead being seriously ill, 
in consequence of his continued exposure to the wea- 
ther, has rendered it impossible for him to send in his 
report. It is not, therefore, in my power, to do justice 
to those gallant individuals who partook with him the 
danger of a tremendous bombardment, without the 
ability of retorting, and without the security, which, in 
more regular fortifications, is provided for such occa- 
sions. The loss, in the fort, is 4 killed, and 24 wound- 
ed ; (the wounded will all recover.) The killed and 
wounded of Gen. Strieker's brigade, is believed to be 
about L')0 — among the former is James Lowry Donald- 
son, Adjutant of the 27th. 

I cannot conclude this report without informing you 
of the great aid I have derived from Com. Hodgers — he 
was ever present, and ever ready to afTord his useful 
counsel, and to render his important services ; his pre- 
sence, with that of his gallant officers and seamen, gave 
confidence to every one. 



251 

The enemy's loss, in his attempt on Baltimore, 
amounts, as near as we can ascertain, to between 6 
and 700 killed, wounded, and missing. General Ross 
was certainly killed. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

SAMUEL SMITH, 3Iaj. Gen. Comg. 
Hon. Sec, War. 



DEFENCE OF FORT M'HENRY. 

Copy of a letter from Lieut. Col. Armistead, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

Fort 31' Henry, Sept. 24/^, 1814. 
A severe indisposition, the effect of ^reat fatigue and 
exposure, has prevented me, heretofore, from piesent- 
intryou with an account of the attack on this post. On 
the night of Saturday the 10;h iiisl. the British fleet, 
consisting of ships of the line, heavy frigates, and bomb 
vessels, amounting;, in the whole, to 30 sail, appeared 
at the mouth of the river Patapsco, with every indica- 
tion of an attempt on the city of Ba'timore. My own 
force consisted of one company of United States artil- 
lery, under Capt. Evans, and two cojnpanies of sea-fen- 
cibles, und.n- Captains Bunbury and Addis^m. Of these 
three companies, 35 men were unfortunately on the 
sick list, and unfit for duty. I had been fui tiished with 
two companies of volunteer artillery, from the city of 
Baltimore, under Capt. Berry and Lieut. Commandant 
Pennington. To these I must add another very fine 
company of volunteer artillerists, under judge Nichol- 
son, who had proffered their services to aid in the de- 
fence of this post, whenever an attack might be appre- 
hended; and also a detachment from Com. Barney's 
flotilla, under Lieut. Rodman. Brig. Gen. Winder had 
also furnished me with about six hundred infantry, un- 
der the command of Lieut. Col. Steuart and Major 
Lane, consisting of detachcnents from the 12th, 14th, 
36th, and 38th regiments of United States troops — the 
total amounting to about 1000 eflbctive men. 



252 

On Monday morning very earb', it was perceived 
that the enemy was landing troops on the east side of 
the Patapsro, distant about ten miles. During that day, 
and the ensuing night, he had brought sixteen ships, (in- 
cluding five bomb ships,) within about two miles and 
an half of this fort. I had arranged my force as fol- 
lows: — the regular artillerists, under Capt. Evans, and 
the volunteers, under Capt. Nicholson, manned the bas- 
tions in the star fort. Captains Bunburj's, Addison's, 
Rodman's, Eerry's, and Lieut. Commandant Penning- 
ton's commands, were stationed on the lower works ; 
and the infantry, under Lieut. Col. Steuart and Major 
Lane, were in the outer ditch, to meet the enemy at his 
landing, should he attempt one. 

On i'uesday morning, about sun-rise, the enemy com- 
menced the attack, from his five bomb vessels, at the 
distance of about two miles; when, finding that his 
shells reached us, he anchored, and kept up an inces- 
sant and well-directed bombardment. We immediate- 
ly opened our batteries, and kept a brisk fire from our 
guns and morlars ; but unfortunately our shot and shells 
all fell considerably short of him. This was, to me, a 
most distressing circumstance ; as it left us exposed to 
a constant and tremendous shower of shells, without the 
most remote possibility of our doing him the slightest 
injury. It aflbrds me the highest gratification to state, 
that, although we were left thus exposed, and thus in- 
active, not a man shrunk from the conflict. 

About 2 o'clock, P. M. one of the 24 pounders, on 
the south west bastion, under the immediate command 
of Capt. Nicholson, was dismounted by a shell; the ex- 
plosion from which killed his 2d Lieutenant, and wound- 
ed several of his men ; the bustle necessarily produced, 
in removing the wounded and re-mounting the gun, 
probably induced the enemy to suspect that we were 
in a state of confusion, as he brought in three of his 
bomb ships to what I believed to be good striking dis- 
tance. I immediately ordered a fire to be opened, 
which was obeyed with alacrity through the whole gar- 
rison, and in half an hour those intruders again shelter- 



253 

ed tliemselves, by withdrawing beyond our reach. We 
gave three cheers, and again ceased firing. The ene- 
my continued throwing shells, with one or two slight 
intermissions, till 1 o'clock in ihe morning of Wednes- 
day, when it was discovered that he had availed him- 
self of the dajkness of the night, and had thrown a con- 
siderabJe force above to our right; they had approach- 
ed very near to fort Covington, when they began to 
throw !-::ckets — intended, I presume, to give them an 
oppoitU!iit> oi examining the shores : as I have since 
underf:t«»(hl, they had detached 1250 picked men, with 
scaling iarlvlers, for the purpose of storming this fort. 
We once more had an opportunity of opening our bat- 
teries, aiui kv"pt up a continued blaze for nearly two 
hours, which '\uv\ the etiect again to drive them off 

In justice to Lieut Newcomb, of the U. States navy, 
who commanded at fort Covington, with a detachment 
of sailors, and Lieut. Webster, of the flotilla, who com- 
manded the six giiii battery, near that fort, I ought to 
st?te, that, during this time, they kept up an animated, 
ann I believe a very destructive fire, to which, 1 am 
persuaded, we are much indebted in repulsing the ene- 
my. One of his sunken barges has since been found, 
with tw(j dead men in it — others have been seen float- 
ing in the river. The only means we had of directing 
our guns, was by the blaze of their rockets, and the 
flashes of their guns. Had they ventured to the same 
situation in the day-time, not a man would have es- 
caped. 

The bombardment continued, on the part of the ene- 
my, until 7 o'clock on Wednesday morning, when it 
ceased ; and about nine, their ships got under weigh, 
and stood down the river. During the bombardment, 
which lasted 25 hours, (with two slight intermissioBS,) 
from the best calculation I can make, from fifteen to 
eighteen hundred shells were thrown by the enemy, 
A few of these fell short. A large proportion burst 
over us, throwing their fragments among us, and threat- 
ening destruction. Many passed over, and about four 
hundred fell within the works Two of the public 



254 

buildings are materially injured — the others but slight- 
ly. I am happy to inform you (wonderful as it may 
appear) that our loss amounts only to four men killed, 
and twenty-four wounded. The latter will all recover. 
Among the killed, I have to lament the loss of Lieut. 
Clagget, and sergeant Clemm, both of (apt Nichol- 
son's volunteers ; two men, whose fate is to be deplor- 
ed, not only for their personal bravery, but for their 
high standing, amiable demeanor, and spotless integri- 
ty, in private life. Lieut. Russel, of the company un- 
der Lieut. Pennington, received, early in the attack, a 
severe contusion in the heel; notwithstanding which, 
he remained at his post during the whole boinbardment. 
Were I to name any individuals who signalized them- 
selves, it would l^>e doing injustice to others Suffice 
it to say, that every officer and soldier, under my com- 
mand, did their duty to my entire satisfaction. 
1 have the honor, kc. 

G. AKM[STEAD, LL Col. U. S, ArtiL 
Hon. J. Munroe, Sec. War, 



SORTIE AT ERIE. 

Copy of a letter fr 0771 Major-Ge7ieral BrotvTi, to the Secretary of 
War, dated 

H. Q. Camp Fort Erie, Sep. 29th, 1814. 

SIR — In my letter of the 18th inst. I briefly inform- 
ed you of the fortunate issue of the sortie which took 
place the day pieceding. But it is due to the gallant 
officers and men, to whose bravery we are indebted for 
our success on this occasion, that I should give you a 
more circumstantial and detailed account of this affair. 

The enemy's camp I had ascertained to be situated 
in a field, surrounded by woods, nearly two miles dis- 
tant from their batteries and entrenchments, the object 
of which w^as to keep the parts of the force, which was 
not upon duty, out of the range of our fire from fort 
Erie and Black Rock. Their infantry was formed in-» 



255 

to three brifijades, estimated at 12 or 15 hundred men 
each. One of these brigades, with a detail from their 
artillery, was stationed at their works, (these being 
about 500 yards distant from old fort Erie, and the 
riojht of our line ) We had already suflered much 
from the fire of two of their batteries, and were aware 
that a third was about to open upon us. Under these 
circumstances, I resolved to siorm the batteries, destroy 
the cannon, and rou£!;hly handle the briorade upon duty, 
before those in reserve could be broui^ht into action. 

On the morning of the i7th, the infantry and rifle- 
men, regulars and militia, were ordered to be paraded 
and put in readiness to march, precisely at 12 o'clock. 
Gen. Porter, with the volunteers. Colonel Gibson, with 
the riflemen, and Major Biooks, with the 23d and 1st 
infantry, and a few dragoons, acting as infantry, were 
ordered to move, Iroiu the extreme left of our position, 
upon the enemy's right, by a passage opened through 
the woods for the occasion. Gen Miller was directed 
to station his command in the ravine, which lies between 
fort Erie and the enemy's batteries, by passing theui 
by detachments through the skirts of the wood ; and 
the 21st infantry, under Gen. Ripley, was posted as a 
corps of reserve, between the new bastions of fort Erie 
— all under cover, and out of the view ol the enemy. 

About 20 minutes before 3, P. M. I found the left 
columns, under the command of Gen. Porter, which 
were destined to turn the enemy's right, within a few 
rods of the British entrenchments. They were ordered 
to advance, and commence the action. Passing down 
the ravine, I judged, from the report of musquetry, 
that the acticm had commenced on our left; 1 now has- 
tened to Gen. Miller, and directed him to seize the mo- 
ment, and pierce the enemy's entrenchment, between 
batteries No. 2 and 3. My orders were promptly and 
ably executed. Within 30 minutes after the first gun 
was fired, batteries JNo. 3 and 2, the enemy's line of 
entrenchments, and his two block-houses, were in our 
possession. Soon after, battery No. 1 was aljandoned 
by the British. The guns, in each, were spiked by u% 



256 

or otherwise destroyed, and the magazine of No. 3 was 
blown up. 

A few minutes before the explosion, T had ordered 
up the reserve, under Gen. Jlipley ; as he passed me, 
at the head of his column, I desired him, as he would 
be the senior in advance, to ascertain, as near as possi- 
ble, the situation of the troops in general, and to have 
a care, that not more was hazarded than tlie occasion re- 
quired ; that the object of the sortie etfecled, the troops 
would retire, in good order, Sic. — Gen. Kipley passed 
rapidly on. Soon after, 1 l)ecame alarmed for General 
Miller, and sent an order for the 2Jst to hasten to his 
support, towards battery No. 1 : Col. Upham received 
the order, and advanced to the aid of Gen. Miller. — 
Gen. Ripley had inclined to the left, where Maj. Brooks' 
command was engaged, with a view of making some ne- 
cessary enquiries of that officer ; and, in the act of 
doing so, was unfortunately wounded. By this time, 
the object of the sortie was accomplished beyond my 
most sanguine expectations. Gen. Miller had conse- 
quently ordered the troops, on the right, to fall back ; 
observing this movement, I sent my staff along the line 
to call in the other corps. Within a few minutes, they 
retired from the ravine, and from thence to camp. 

Thus, one thousand regulars, and an equal portion of 
militia, in one hour of close action, blasted the hopes 
of the enemy, destroyed the fruits of fifty days labor, 
and diminished his effective force 1000 men, at least. — 
I am at a loss to express my satisfaction at the gallant 
conduct of the officers and men of this division, whose 
valor has shone superior to every trial. Gen. Porter, 
in his official report, herein enclosed, has very proper- 
ly noticed those patriotic citizens, who have done so 
much honor to themselves, by freely, and voluntarily 
tendering their services, at a dangerous and critical 
period. 

As the scene of action was in the wood, in advance 
of the position I had chosen for directing the move- 
ments of the whole, the several reports of the command- 
ants of corps must guide me, in noticing individuals. 



257 

General Miller mentions Tjieut. Col. Aspinwall, 
Lieut. Col. Beedle, Major Trimble, Capt. Hull, Capt. 
Ingersol, Lieut. Crawford, Lieut. Lee, and parti- 
cularly Ensign O'Fling, as entitled to disiinction. 

Lieut. Col. McDonald, upon whom the command of 
the rifle corps devolved, upon the fall of the brave and 
generous Gibson, names adjutants Shortridge of ibe 1st, 
and Ballard of the 4th regiment, as deservino; the iiigh- 
est applause, for their promptness and gallanrry in com- 
municating orders. Of the other officers of the corp?, 
he reports generally, that the bravery and good con- 
duct of all was so conspicuous, as to render it impossi- 
ble to discriminate. 

Major Brooks, to whom much credit is due for the 
distinguished manner in which he executed the orders 
he received, speaks in high terms of Lieuts. Goodell, 
Ingersol, Livingston, and Ensigns Brant and O'Fling, 
of the 23d — particularly of the latter. Also of Capt. 
Simms, Lieutenants Bissel, Shore, and Brinot of the Ist 
infantry, and Lieut. Watts of the dragoons. 

Lieut. Col. Upham, who took command of the re- 
serve, after Gen. Ripley was disabled, bestows great 
praise upon Major Chambers, of the 4th regiment of 
riflemen, attached to the 21st infantry, as also upon 
Capt. Bradford, and Lieut. Holding, of that regiment. 

My staff. Col. Snelling. Col. Gardner, Major Jones, 
and my aid-de-camp. Major Austin, and Lieut. Arm- 
strong, were, as usual, zealous, intelligent, and active 
— they performed every duty required of them to my 
entire satisfaction. 

Major Hall, assistant Inspector Gen. led a batallion 
of militia, and conducted with skill and gallantry. — 
Lieut. Kirby, aid-de-camp to Gen. Kipley, was ex- 
tremely active and useful, during the time he was in 
the action. 

Lieutenants Frazer and Riddle w^ere in Gen. Porter's 
staff; their bravery was conspicuous, and no officers of 
their grade were more useful. 

The corps of artillery, commanded by Major Hind- 
man, which has been so eminently distinguished through- 



258 

out this campaign, had no opportunity of taking a part 
in the sortie. The 25th infantry, under Col. Jessup, 
was stationed in fort Erie, to hold the key of our po- 
sition. 

Col. Brady, on whose firmness and good conduct 
every reliance could be placed, was on command at 
Eufl'aloe, with the remains of the 22d infantry. Lieut, 
Col. M'Rea, and Lieut Col. Wood, of the corps of en- 
gineers, have rendered to this army services the most 
important ; I must seize the opportunity of again men- 
tioning them, particularly : on every trying occasion, I 
have reaped much benefit from their sound and excel- 
lent advice ; no two officers of their grade could have 
contributed more to the safety and honor of this army. 
Wood, brave, generous, and enterprizing, died, as he 
had lived — without a feeling, but for the honor of his 
country and the glory of her arms ; — his name and ex- 
ample will live, to guide the soldier in the path of duty, 
so long as true heroism is held in estimation. M'Rea 
lives to enjoy the approbation of every virtuous and 
generous mind, and to receive the reward due to his 
services and high military talents. 

It is proper here to notice, that although but one 
third of the enemy's force was on duty when his works 
were carried, the whole were brought into action while 
we were employed in destroying his cannon. We secur- 
ed prisoners from seven of his regiments, and know that 
the 6th and 82d suffered severely in killed and wounded, 
yet these regiments were not upon duty. 

Lieut. Gen. Drummond broke up his camp, during the 
night of the 2l8t, and retired to his entrenchments, be- 
hind the Chippewa. A party of our men came up with 
the rear of his army, at Frenchman's Creek ; the enemy 
destroyed part of their stores, by setting fire to the build- 
ings from which they were employed in conveying them. 
We found, in and about their camp, a considerable quanti- 
ty of cannon ball, and upwards of one hundred stand of 
arms. 

I send you, enclosed herein, a return of our loss. The 



'259 

return of prisoners inclosed does not include the strag- 
glers that came in after the action. 
I have the honor, &c. 

JACOB BROWN. 
Hon. Sec. War. 

Heporl of the killed, wounded, and missing, in the above 
action, — Killed, 79 — wounded, 216 — missing, 216 — total 
511. C. K. GAaDNER, Adj. Gen. 

Return of prisoners taken in the above action. — Two 
Majors, 4 Captains, 4 Lieutenants, 1 Ensign, 1 Assistant- 
Surgeon, 4 staff sergeants, 19 sergeants, 17 corporals, 1 
drummer, 332 rank and file — total 385. 

J. SNELLING, Insp. Gen. 



DEFENCE AT FORT BOWYER. 

Copi/ of a letter from Moj. Gen. Jackson to the Secretary of War. 

H. Q. 1th M. D. Mobile, Sept. 17, 1 814, 10, ^. M 

SIR — I have but a moment to spare, to tell jou, since 
the departure of mj letter this morning, a messenger has 
returned from fort Bowyer with the pleasing intelligence, 
that Major Laurence has gallantly repulsed the enemy 
with great loss, blowing up a vessel of 36 guns. Only 4 
of our men were killed, and 5 wounded. The officer 
bringing the dispatches will be here in an hour, when I 
shaH be enabled to give you the particulars. 
I have the honor, &:c. 

Hon. Sec. War. ANDREW JACKSON. 



CAPTURE OF THE REINDEER. 

Copy of a letter from Capt. Johnson Blakely to the Secretary ef 
the Navy. 

U. S. Sloop Wasp, VOrient, Sth July, 1814. 

SIR— .On Tuesday the 28th ult. being then in lat. 48, 

36 north, and Ion. IL 15 west, we fell in with, engaged, 



260 

and after an action of nineteen minutes, captured his 
B. M. sloop of war, the Reindeer, William Manners, Esq. 
commander. Annexed are the minutes of our proceed- 
ings on that day, prior to, and during the continuance of 
the action. 

Where all did their duty, and each appeared anxious 
to excel, it is very difficult to discriminate. It is, how- 
ever, only rendering them their merited due, when it is 
declared of Lieutenants Reily and Bury, 1st and 3d of 
tliis vessel, and whose names will be found among those 
of the conquerors of the Gurriere and Java, and Mr. Till- 
inghast, 2d Lieutenant, who was greatly instrumental in 
the capture of the Boxer ; that their conduct and courage 
on this occasion, fulfilled the highest expectation, and gra- 
tified every wish. Sailing-master Carr is also entitled to 
great credit, for the zeal and abihty with which he dis- 
charged his various duties. 

The cool and patient conduct of every' officer and man, 
while exposed to the fire of the shifting gun of the enemy, 
and without an opportunity of returning it, could only be 
equalled by the animation and ardor exhibited, when ac- 
tually engaged, or by the promptitude and firmness with 
which every attempt of the enemy, to board, was met, and 
successfully repelled. Such conduct may be seen, but 
cannot well be described. 

The Reindeer mounted sixteen 24 pr. carronades, 2 
long 6 or D prs. and a shifting 12 pr. carronade, with a 
complement of (on board) 118 men. Her crew were 
said to be the pride of Plymouth. 

Our loss, in men, has been severe, owing, in part, to 
the proximity of the two vessels, and the extreme smooth- 
ness of the sea — but chiefly in repelling boarders ; that 
of the enemy, however, is infinitely more so, as will be 
seen by the list of killed and wounded, on both sides. — 
Six round shot struck our hull, and many grape, which 
did not penetrate far. The foremast received a 24 pr. 
shot, which passed through its centre, and our rigging and 
sails were a good deal injured. The Reindeer was liter- 
ally cut to pieces, in a line with her ports ; her upper 
works, boats, spare spars, were one complete wreck. A 



261 

breeze springing up, next afternoon, her foremast went 
bj the board. 

Having received all the prisoners on board, which, 
from the number of wounded, occupied much time, to- 
gether with their baggage, the Reindeer was, on the even- 
ing of the 29th, set on lire, and in a £ew hours blew up. 
I have the honor, &c. 

J. BLAKELY. 
Hon. TV. Jones, Sec. Navy. 

MlJSrUTES OF THE ACTIO^T, 

Between the U. S. S. Wasp, and his B. 31. S. Reindeer, 
on the 2^th June, 1814. 
At 4, A. M. light breezes, and cloudj ; at a quarter after 
4, discovered two sails, two points before the lee beam— - 
kept avvay in chase ; shortly after, discovered one sail, on 
the weather beam ; altered the course, and hauled by, in 
chase of the sail to windward ; — at 8, sail to windward 
bora E. N. E. wind very light; at 10, the stranger sail, 
bearing E. by N. hoisted an English ensign and pendant, 
and displayed a signal at the main, (blue and yellow dia- 
gonally ;) — at half past 1 2, the enemy showed a blue and 
white flag, diagonally, at the fore, and iired a gun — 1 h. 
15 minutes, called all hands to quarters, and prepared for 
action — 1 h. 22 minutes, believing we could weather the 
enemy, tacked ship, and stood for him — 1 h. 50 minutes, 
the enemy tacked ship, and stood from us — 1 h. 56 min- 
utes, hoisted our colors, and fired a gun to windward, 
which was answered by the enemy, with another to wind- 
ward — 2 h. 20 minutes, the enemy still standing from us 
— set the royals — 2 h. 25 minutes, set the flying jib — 2h. 
29 minutes, set the upper stay-sails. Finding the enemy 
did not get sufficiently on the beam, to enable us to bring 
our guns to bear, put the helm a-lee, and, at 26 minutes 
after 3, commenced the action, with the after carronade, 
on the starboard side, and fired in succession — 3 h. 40 
minutes, the enemy having his larboard bow in contact 
with our larboard quarter, endeavored to board us ; but 
was repulsed in every attempt — at 3 h. 44 minutes, orders 



262 

were given to board in turn, which were promptly exe- 
cuted, when all resistance immediately ceased, and, at 3 h. 
15 minutes, the enemy hauled down his flag. 

J. BLAKELY. 

Return of killed and ivoundtd, on hoard the U. ^. S. 
Wasp, in the above action. — Killed, 5 — wounded, 21 — 
total, 26. 

Return of killed and wounded^ on board H. B. M. S. 
Reindeer, in the above action, — Killed, 25 — wounded, 42 
—total, 67, 

J. BLAKELY. 



DEFENCE OF FORT BOWYER. 

Copy of a letter from Maj. Gen. Jackson, to the Secretary of War, dated 
H. Q. 1th M, D. Mobile, Sept. 1 7, 1 8 1 4. 

SIR — With lively emotions of satisfaction I communi- 
cate, that success has crowned the gallant efforts of our 
brave soldiers, in resisting and repulsing a combined Bri- 
tish naval and land force, which, on the 15th inst. attack- 
ed fort Bowyer, on the Point of Mobile. 

I enclose a copy of the official report of Major William 
Laurence, of the 2d infantry, who commanded. In addi- 
tion to the particulars communicated in his letter, I have 
learnt that the ship, which was destroyed, was the Her- 
mes, of from 24 to 28 guns, Captain the hon. William H. 
Percy, senior officer in the gulf of Mexico ; and the brig, 
so considerably damaged, is the Sophie, 18 guns, Captam 
Lockyer. The other ship was the Carron, of from 24 to 
28 guns, Capt. Spencer, son of Earl Spencer — the other 
brig's name unknown. On board of the Carron, 85 men 
were killed and wounded, among whom was Col. Nicoll, 
of the royal marines, who lost an eye, by a splinter. The 
land force consisted of 110 marines, and 200 Creek In- 
dians, under the command of Capt. Woodbine, of marines, 
and about 20 artillerists, with one four and a half inch 
howitzer, from which they discharged shells and 91b. shot. 



2iio 

Vimy re-embarked the piece, and retreated, by land, to- 
wards Pensacola, whence they came. 

By the morning report of the 16th, there were present 
in the fort, fit for duty, officers and men, 158. The result" 
of this engagement has stamped a character on the war, 
in this quarter, highly favorable to the American arms — 
it is an event, from which may be drawn the most favora- 
ble augury. 

An achievement so glorious in itself, and so important 
in its consequences, should be appreciated by the govern- 
ment ; and those concerned are entitled to, and will 
doubtless receive, the most gratifying evidence of the ap- 
probation of their countrymen. 

In the words of Major Laurence, " where all behaved 
Well, it is unnecessary to discriminate ;" but all being me- 
ritorious, I beg leave to annex the names of the officers 
who were engaged and present, and hope they will, indi- 
vidually, be deemed worthy of distinction : 

Maj. William Laurence, 2d infantry, commanding; 
Capt. Walsh, of the artillery; Captains Chamberlain, 
Brownlow, and Bradley, of the 2d infantry ; Capt Sands, 
dep. com. of ordnance ; Lieuts. Villard, Sturges, Conway, 
H. Sanders, T. R. Sanders, Brooks, Davis, and C. Saun- 
ders, all of the 2d infantry. 

I am confident that your own feelings will lead you to 
participate in my wishes, on this subject — permit me to 
suggest the propriety and justice of allowing to this gal- • 
lant band the value of the vessel destroyed by them. 
I am, &c. 
ANDREW JACKSON, 3Iaj. Gen. Comg. 

Hon Sec. of War. 



DESTRUCTION OF THE PIRATES. 

Copy of a letter fr dm Commodore Patterson, to the Secretary of 
the Navy, dated 

New-Orleans, lOth Oct. 1814. 

SIR — I have very great satisfaction in reporting to 

you, that the contemplated expedition against the pirates, 



261 

30 long, and strongly established among the western 
islands and waters of this state, of which I had the honor 
to inform you, by my letter of the 10th ult. has terminated 
in the capture and destruction of all their vessels in port • 
their establishments on the island of Grand Terre, Grand- 
Isle, and Cheniere Caminada; and the dispersion of the 
band themselves. The successful issue of this attack 
upon them, will, I trust, prevent their ever collectino- 
again, in sufficient force to injure the commerce of thit 
state. 

The force of the pirates was twenty pieces of cannon, 
mounted, of different calibres, and, as I have learnt since' 
my arrival, from 800 to 1000 men, of all nations and colors. 

I have brought with me, to this city, six fme schooners. 

and one felucca, cruizers. and prizes of the pirates and 

one armed schooner, under Carthagenian colors, found in 
company, and ready to oppose the force under my com- 
mand. 

Herewith I have the honor to transmit a detailed ac- 
count of this expedition, which I hope will prove satisfac- 
tory to the department ; as also a copy of a letter from 
Lqfitte, the Chief of the pirates, to Capt. Lockyer, of 
his B. M. brig Sophia, which forms the conclusion of a 
correspondence between the English commanders in the 
gulf of Mexico and the Floridas, and the pirates, copies of 
which his excellency Gov. Claiborne informs me, he trans- 
mitted to the department of state. This correspondence 
shows the importance of the expedition, and the impor- 
tant species of force we have prevented the enemy's re- 
ceiving, by their proposed alliance with the pirates, and 
added to our own. 

I have the honor, &c. 

DANl. T. PATTERSON. 
Hon, W. Jones. 



AFFAIR NEAR CHIPPEWA. 

On the 18th October, 1814, Gen. Izard had directed 
Gen. Bissel to proceed against the enemy near Chippewa, 



265 

which he did, with 1000 men — drove the enemy, and de- 
stroyed near 200 bushels of grain, belonging to them. — 
General Bissel reports his own loss, in killed, to be 12 — 
wounded and missing, 55 — total, 67. 

The enemy left their killed on the field, who were bu- 
ried by the Americans. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT. 



GENERAL ORDERS. 



H. Q. of the Northern Army, 

Camp, near Fort Erie, October 23d, 1814. 

The indisposition of Brig Gen. Bissel has prevented, till 
this morning, his report of the handsome alfair which took 
place on the 19th, between a detachment of his bri»>-ade, 
and a superior force of the enemy. 

The object of the expedition, entrusted to the Brigadier, 
was the seizure of some provisions, intended for the Bri- 
tish troops. He marched from Black Creek, on the morn- 
ing of the 18th, with parts of the 5th, 14th, 15th, and 16th 
infantry, a small party of dragoons, and a company of 
riflemen, the whole, 900 men. After driving before them 
a picket, of which they made the commanding officer 
prisoner, they encamped for the night, throwing beyond 
Lyon's Creek two light-infantry companies, under Capt. 
Dorman, 5th, and Lieut. Horrel, 16th infantry, and the 
riflemen, under Capt. Irvine ; a picket on the Chippewa 
road, commanded by Lieut. Gassaway, was attacked by 
two companies of Glengary light-infantry, which were 
beaten back, with loss. On the morning of the 19th, the 
detachment was attacked by a select corps of the enemy, 
not less than 1200 strong. The light-infantry, under 
Capt. Dorman, and Irvine's riflemen, sustained the whole 
fire of the enemy, for fifteen minutes, during which time 
the 5th and 14th were formed — the 5th was ordered to 
turn the enemy's right flank, while the 14th charged them 
in front. This was executed in the most gallant manner, 
by Col. Pinckney. of the 5th, and Major Barnard, of th© 

LI 



266 

14th, who greatly distinguished himselt, by the olhcei- 
like style in which he conducted his battalion. The ene- 
my were compelled to a precipitate retreat, and hid them- 
selves, once more, behind their fortifications. 

Brig. Gen. Bissell particularly mentions the skill and 
intrepidity of Col. Snelhn^, Inspector-General, Col. Pinck- 
ney, commanding the 5th regiment. Major Barnard, 14th 
infantry. Major Barker, 45th infantry, acting with the 5th, 
Capt. Dorman, Capt. Allison, (whose horse was shot un- 
der him,) and Brigade-Major, Lieut. Prestman, of the 
5th. Lieutenant Anspaugh, of dragoons, was conspicu- 
ous, by his alertness in communicating the Brigadier-Ge- 
neral's orders, during the action. It is with the highest 
satisfaction, that the commanding General tenders, to the 
brave officers and troops, of the 2d brigade of the right 
division, his thanks, for their good conduct on this occa- 
sion. The firmness of the 15th and 16th regiments, com- 
manded by Col. Pierce, and who were posted as a reserve, 
proved, that had the resistance of the enemy afforded 
them an opportunity of going into action, they would have 
emulated the valor of the commanders of the 5th and 14 th. 
A number of prisoners were taken, among whom a picket 
of dragoons, with their horses; a large quantity of grain 
also fell into our hands. The Brigadier, after completing 
the orders he had received, and burying the few of our 
brave soldiers who fell in the action, and the dead of thfr 
enemy, which were left on the ground by the latter, re- 
turned to Black Creek. To the cool, and intrepid con- 
duct of Brig. Gen. Bissell, the General offers the praise 
he has so justly entitled himself to. 
By order of Maj. Gen. Izardy 

C. K. GARDNER, Adj. Gen. N. Army. 



THE WASP'S CRUISE. 

Copy of a letter from Johnson Blakely, Esq. Commander of the U. S. 
Sloop of War Wasp, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

U. S. Sloop Wasp, at Sea, Uth Sept. 1814. 

SIR — After a protracted, and tedious stay at L'Orient, 

I had, at last, the pleasure of leaving that place, on Satur- 



267 

day the 27th August. On the 30th, captured the British 
brig Lettice — and 31st August the British brig Bon Ac^ 
cord. On the morning of the 1st September, discovered 
a convoy of 10 sail, to leeward, in charge of the Armada 
74, and a bomb ship — stood for them, and succeeded in 
cutting out the British brig Mary, laden with brass can- 
non, taken from the Spaniards ; iron cannon, and military 
stores, from Gibraltar to England — removed the prison- 
ers, set her on fire, and endeavored to capture another of 
the convoy, but was chased off by the Armada. On the 
evening of the same day, at half past 6, while going free, 
discovered 4 vessels, nearly at the same time ; two on 
the starboard, and two on the larboard bow — hauled up 
for the one most on the starboard bow, being the farthest 
to windward — at 7, the chase (a brig) commenced making 
signals, with flags, which could not be distinguished for 
want of hght; and soon after, made various ones, with 
lanterns, rockets, and guns — at 26 minutes after 9, hav- 
ing the chase under our lee bow, the 12 pr. carronc.de 
was directed to be fired into him, which he returned : ran 
under his lee, to prevent his escaping, and, at 29 minutes 
past 9, commenced the action — at 10 o'clock, believing- 
the enemy to be silenced, orders were given to cease fir- 
ing, when I hailed, and asked if he had surrendered ; no 
answer being given to this, and his fire having recom- 
menced, it was again returned — at 12 minutes after 10, 
the enemy having suiTeied greatly, and having made no 
return to our two last broadsides, I hailed him a second 
time, to know if he had surrendered, when he answered 
in the affirmative. The guns were then ordered to be se- 
cured, and the boats lowered down, to take possession — 
in the act of lowering the boat, a second brig was disco- 
vered, a little distance astern, and standing for us — sent 
the crew to their quarters, prepared every thing for ano- 
ther action, and awaited his coming up ;— -at 36 minutes 
after 10, discovered two more sail standing for us : I now 
felt myself compelled to forego the satisfaction of destroy- 
ing the prize — our braces having been cut away, we kept 
off the wind until others could be rove, and with the ex- 
pectation of drawing the second bri^ from his companions ; 



268 

but, In this last, we were disappointed : the second brig 
continued to approach us, until she came close to our 
stern, when she hauled by the wind, fired her broadside, 
(which cut our rigging and sails considerably, and shot 
away our lower main cross-trees,J and re-traced her steps 
to join her consorts. When we were necessitated to aban- 
don the prize, she appeared, in every respect, a total 
wreck ; he continued, some time, firing guns of distress, 
until, probably, delivered by the two last vessels who 
made their appearance. The second brig could have en- 
gaged us, if he had thought proper, as he neared us fast; 
but contented himself with firing a broadside, and immedi- 
ately returned to his co!npanions. 

It is with real satisfaction I have again the pleasure of 
bearing testimony to the merits of Lieutenants Reily, 
Tillinghast, Bauiy, and saihng-master Carr ; and to the 
good conduct of every officer and man on board the Wasp. 
Their divisions and departments were attended and sup- 
plied, with the utmost regularity and abundance ; which, 
with the good order maintained, together with the vivaci- 
ty and precision of their fire, reflects on them the greatest 
credit Our loss is two killed, and one slightly wounded 
with a wad. The hull received four round shot, and the 
foremast many grape shot ; our rigging and sails suffered 
a great deal — every damage has been repaired, the day 
after, with the exception of our sails. 

Of the vessel with whom we were engaged, nothing 
positive can be said, with regard to her name or force.* 
While hailing him, previous to his being fired into, it was 
blowing fresh, (10 knots,) and the name was not distinct- 
ly heard. Of her force, the 4 shot which struck us ae 
all 32lbs. in weight, being one and three quarter lbs. hea- 
vier than any belonging to this vessel ; from this circum- 
stance, the number of men in her tops, her general appear- 
ance, and great length, she is believed to be one of the 
largest brigs in the British navy. 

I have the honor, kc. J. BLAKELY. 

Hon. Sec. Navy. 

* It is known by the British prints, that the brig, engaged above, was 
the AVON, of 18 guns — and that she sunk soon after the Wasp l^ft her. 



269 
PRIVATEER GENERAL ARMSTRONG. 

Fayal, UhOd. 1814. 

With infinite regret, I am constrained to say, it has even- 
tually fallen to my lot to state to you the loss, and total 
destruction of the private armed brig, General Armstrong, 
late under my command. 

We sailed from Sandy Hook, on the evening of the 9th 
ult. and, about midnigtit, fell in close aboard of a razee 
and ship of the line. They pursued till next day noon, 
when they thought proper to give over chase. On the 
11th, after a nine hours chase, boarded the private armed 
schr. Perry, John Colman, 6 days from Philadelphia ; had 
thrown over all his guns. On the following day, fell in 
with an enemy's gun brig ; exchanged a few shots with, 
and left him. On the 24 th, boarded a Spanish brig and 
schooner, and a Portuguese ship, all from the Havanna. 
On the 26th, following, came too in Fayal Roads, for the 
purpose of filling water; called on the American Consul, 
■who very pofitely ordered our water immediately sent o^\ 
it being our intention to proceed to sea, early the next 
day. At 5, P. M. I went on board, the Consul, and some 
other gentlemen, in company. I asked some questions 
concerning enemy's cruisers, and was told there had been 
none, at these islands, for several weeks; when about 
dusk, while we w^ere conversing, the British brig Carna- 
tion suddenly hove in sight, close under the N. E. head 
of the harbor, within gun-shot, when first discovered. — 
The idea of getting under way was instantly sugo;ested ; 
but finding the enemy's brig had the advantage of abreeze, 
and but little wind with us, it was thought doubtful if we 
should be able to get to sea without hazarding an action. 
I questioned the Consul, to know if, in his opinion, the 
enemy would regard the neutrality of the port } He gave 
me to understand, I might make myself perfectly easy ; 
assuring me, at the same time, they would never molest 
us, while at anchor. But no sooner did the enemy's brig 
understand, from the pilot-boat, who we were, when she 
immediately hauled close in, and let go her anchor, within 
pistol-shot of us. At the same moment, the Plantagenet, 



270 

and frigate Rota, hove in sight, to whom tiic Carnation 
instantly made signal, and a constant intorchange took 
place for some time. The result was, the Carnation pro- 
ceeded to throw out all her boats; dispatched one on 
board the Commodore, and appeared, otherwise, to be 
making unusual exertions. From these circumstances, I 
began to suspect their real intentions. The moon was 
near its full, which enabled us to observe them very mi- 
nutely ; and I now determined to haul in, nearer the shore. 
Accordingly, after clearing for action, we got under way, 
and began to sweep in. The moment this was observed 
by the enemy's brig, she instantly cut her cable, made sail, 
and dispatched four boats in pursuit of us. Being now 
about 8, P. M. as soon as we saw the boats approaching, 
we let go our anchor, got springs on our cable, and pre- 
pared to receive them. 1 hailed them repeatedly, as they 
drew near, but they felt no inclination to reply. Sure of 
their game, they only pulled up with the greater speed. 
I observed the boats were well manned, and, apparently, 
as well armed ; and, as soon as they had cleverly get along 
side, we opened our fire, which was as soon returned; 
but, meeting with rather a warmer reception than they 
had probably been aware of, they very soon cried out for 
quarters, and hauled olf. In this skirmish I had one man 
killed, and my 1st Lieutenant wounded. The enemy's 
loss must have been upwards of twenty, killed and 
wounded. 

They had now repaired to their ships, to prepare for a 
more formidable attack. We, in the interim, having taken 
the hint, prepared to haul close into the beach, where we 
moored head and stern, within half pistol-shot of the cas- 
tle. This done, we again prepared, in the best possible 
manner, for their second reception. About 9, P. M. we 
observed the enemy's brig towing in a large fleet of boats 
— they soon after left the brig, and took their station in 
three divisions, under covert of a small reef of rocks, 
within about musquet-shot of us. Here they continued 
manoeuvering, for some time, the brig still keeping under 
way to act with the boats, should we at any time attempt 
our escape. 



271 

The shores were lined with the inhabitants, waitino- the 
expected attack ; and, from the brightness of the moon, 
they had a most favorable view of the scene. The Go- 
vernor, with most of the first people of the place, stood by. 
and saw the whole affair. 

At length, about midnight, we observed the boats in 
motion, (our crew having laid at their quarters during the 
whole of this interval.) They came on, in one direct line, 
keeping in close order ; and we plainly counted twelve 
boats. As soon as they came within proper distance, we 
opened our fire, which was warmly returned from the ene- 
my's carronades and small arms. The discharge from 
our long Tom rather staggered them ; but soon reconnoi- 
tering, they gave three cheers, and came on most spi- 
ritedly. In a moment, they succeeded in gaining our 
bow and starboard quarter, and the word was board. — 
Our great guns now becoming useless, we attacked 
them sword in hand, together with our pikes, pistols, 
and musquetry, from which our lads poured on them 
a most destructive fire. The enemy made frequent 
and repeated attempts to gain our decks, but were re- 
pulsed at all times, and at all points, with the greatest 
slaughter. — About the middle of the action, I received 
intelligence of the death of my second Lieutenant ; and, 
soon after, of the third Lieut, being badly wounded : — 
from this, and other causes, I found our fire had much 
slackened on the forecastle ; and, fearful of the event, 
I instantly rallied the whole of our after division, who 
had been bravely defending, and now had succeeded 
in beating the boats off the quarters — they gave a 
shout, rushed forward, opened a fresh fire, and soon 
after decided the conflict — which terminated in the to- 
tal defeat of the enemy, and the loss of many of their 
boats ; two of which, belonging to the Rota, we took 
possession of, literally loaded with their own dead. 
Seventeen only escaped, from them both, who had 
swam to the shore. In another boat, under our quar- 
ter, commanded by one of the Lieutenants of the Plan- 
tagenet, all were killed, saving four : this I have from 



272 

the Lieutenant himself, who further told me that he 
jumped overboard, to save his own life. 

The duration of this action was about 40 minutes. — - 
Our decks were now found in much confusion, our 
long Tom dismounted, and several of our carriages 
broken ; many of our crew having left the vessel, and 
others disabled. Under these circumstances, however, 
we succeeded in getting long Tom in his birth, and the 
decks cleared, in some sort, for a fresh action, should 
the enemy attack us again, before day-light. About 
3, A. M. I received a message from the American Con- 
sul, requesting to see me on shore ; where he informed 
me the Governor had sent a note to Captain Lloyd, 
begging him to desist from further hostilities. To 
which Captain Lloyd sent, for answer, that he was now 
determined to have the privateer, at the risk of knock- 
ing down the whole town ; and that if the Governor 
suffered the Americans to injure ttie privateer, in any 
manner, he should consider the place an enemy's port, 
and treat it accordingly. Finding this to be the case, 
I considered all hopes, of saving our vessel, to be at an 
end. I therefore went on board, and ordered all our 
wounded, and dead, to be taken on shore, and the crew 
to save their effects, as fast as possible. — Soon after 
this, it became day-light, when the enemy's brig stood 
close in, and commenced a heavy fire on us, with all 
her force. After several broad-sides, she hauled off, 
having received a shot in her hull, her rigging much 
cut, and her foretopmast wounded ; (of this I was in- 
formed by the British Consul.) She soon after came 
in again, and anchored close to the privateer. I then 
ordered the Armstrong to be scuttled, to prevent the 
enemy from getting her off. She was soon after board- 
ed by the enemy's boats, and set on fire, which soon 
completed her destruction. 

They have destroyed a number of houses in the 
town, and wounded some of the inhabitants. 

By what I have been able to learn from the British 
Consul, and officers of the fleet, it appears there were 
about 400 officers and men in the last attack by the 



boats, of which 120 were killed, and about 130 wound- 
ed — Captain Lloyd, I am told by the British ^ onsul, 
is badly wounded in the leg ; a jury of surgeons had 
been held, who gave as their opinion, that ampulaiion 
would be necessary to insure his life. It is said, how- 
ever, that the wound was occasioned by an ox treading 
on him. — The fleet has remained here about a week, 
during which they have been principally employed 
in burying their dead, and taking care of their wounded. 

Three days after the action, they were joined by the 
ship Thais and brig Calypso, (two sloops of war) who 
were immediately taken into requisition, by Captain 
Lloyd, to take home the wounded men The Calypso 
sailed for England, with part of the wounded, on the 
2d instant — among whom, the first Lieut, of the Planta- 
genet. The Thais sails this evening, with the remain- 
der. Capt. Lloyd's fleet sailed to day, supposed for the 
West-Indies. 

The loss on our part, I am happy to say, is compa- 
ratively trifling; two killed and seven wounded. With 
regard to my officers in general, I feel the greatest sa- 
tisfaction in saving they, one and all, fought with the 
most determined bravery, and to whom I feel highly 
indebted for their otficer-like conduct, during the short 
period we were together ; their exertions and bravery 
deserved a better fate. 

I here insert, for your inspection, a list of the killed 
and wounded : — 

Killed — Mr. Alexander O. Williams, 2d Lieut, and 
one seaman. 

Wounded — Frederick A. Worth, 1st Lieut. Robert 
Johnson, 3d Lieut. Bazilla Hammond, (Quarter- master, 
and 4 seamen. 

It gives me much pleasure to announce to you, that 
our wounded are all in a fair way of recovery, through 
the unremitted care and attention of our worthy sur- 
geon. 

Mr. Dabney, our Consul, is a gentleman, professing 
every feeling of humanity, and to whom the utmost 

M m 



274 

gratitude is due, from us, for his great care of the sick 
and wounded, and his polite attention to my officers 
and myself. 

Mr. Williams was a most deserving and promising 
officer. His country, in him, has lost one of its bright- 
est ornaments ; and his death must be sadly lamented 
by all who knew^ his worth. 

Accompanied with this, you will find a copy of my 
Protest, together with copies of letters, written by Mr. 
Dabney, to the Governor of Fayal, our Minister at 
Rio Janeiro, and our Secretary of State. These let- 
ters will develope, more fully, the circumstances of 
this unfortunate affair. 

We expect to sail to-morrow, in a Portuguese brig, 
for Amelia-Island, who takes the whole of our crew ; 
till when, 1 remain, gentlemen, your very obedient 
humble servant, 

SAMUEL C. REID. 



FURTHER ACCOUNT, 

From an English gentleman^ at Fayal, to William 
Cobbett, Esq. 

Fatal, October 15, 1814. 
William Cobbett, Esq. 
SIR — The American schooner privateer General 
Armstrong, of New- York, Captain Samuel C. Reid, of 
seven guns, and ninety men, entered here on the 26th 
ult. about noon, 17 days from that place, for the pur- 
pose of obtaining water. The Captain, seeing nothing 
on the horizon, was induced to anchor. Before the 
elapse of many hours, his majesty's brig Carnation 
came in, and anchored near her. About six, his majes- 
ty's ship, Plantagenet, of 74 guns, and the Rota frigate, 
came in and anchored also. The Captain of the priva- 
teer, and his friends, consulted the first authorities here, 
about her security. They all considered her perfect- 
ly secure, and that his majesty's officers were too well 



275 

acquainted with the respect due to a neutral port to 
molest her. But, to the great surprize of every one, 
about nine in the evening, four boats were dispatched, 
armed and manned from his majesty's ships, for the 
purpose of cutting her out. It being about full of 
moon, the night perfectly clear and calm, we could see 
every movement made. The boats approached with 
rapidity towards her, when, it appears, the Captain of 
the privateer hailed them, and told them to keep ofij 
several times. They, notwithstanding, pushed on, and 
were in the act of boarding, before any defence was 
made for the privateer. — A. warm contest ensued on 
both sides. The boats were finally dispersed, with 
great loss. — The American, now calculatiug on a very 
superior force being sent, cut his cables, and rowed the 
privateer close in alongside of the fort, within half ca- 
ble's length, where he moored her, head and stern, with 
four lines. The Governor now sent a remonstrance to 
the Van Lloyd, of the Plantagenet, against such pro- 
ceedings, and trusted that the privateer would not be 
further molested ; she being in the dominions of Portu- 
gal, and under the guns of the castle, was entitled to 
Portuguese protection. Van Lloyd's answer was, that 
he was determined to destroy the vessel, at the expence 
of all Fayal, and should any protection be given her 
by the fort, he would not leave a house standing in the 
village. All the inhabitants were gathered about the 
walls, expecting a renewal of the attack. At midnight, 
14 launches were discovered to be coming, in rotation, 
for the purpose. When they got within clear, or gun- 
shot, a tremendous and effectual discharge was made 
from the privateer, which threw the boats into confu- 
sion. They now returned a spirited fire ; but the pri- 
vateer kept up so continual a discharge, it was almost 
impossible for the boats to make any progress. They 
finally succeeded, after immense loss, to get along side 
of her, and attempted to board at every quarter, cheer- 
ed by the officers with a shout of no quarter, which we 
could distinctly hear, as well as their shrieks and cries. 
The termination was near about a total massacre. 



276 

Three of the boats were sunk, and but one poor solita- 
ry olfk'er escaped dt^ath, in a boat that contained tifty 
souls; he was wounded. The Americans fou2;ht with 
!>;! eat firmness — some of the boats were left w ithout a 
single nian to row them ; others with three and four ; — 
the most, that any one returned with, was about ten. 
Several boats floated on shore, full of dead bodies. 
With s^reat reluctance 1 state, that they were manned 
with picked men, and commanded by the first, second, 
third, and fourlh Lieutenants of the Plantagenet ; first, 
Si^cond, third, and fourth ditto ot the frigate, and the 
Ursl officers of the brig ; together with a great number 
of midshipmen. Our whole force exceeded 400 men , 
but three ofiicers escaped, two of which are wounded. 
l'hi-« bloody, and unfortunate contest lasted about forty 
iniautes. After the boats gave out, nothing more was 
attempted till day-light the next morning, when the 
Carnation hauled along side, and engaged her. The 
privateer still continued to make a most gallant defence. 
I'hese veterans reminded me of Lawrence's dying 
words, of the Chesapeake — " d(m'tgive up the ship." — 
The Carnation lost one of her top-ujasts, and her yards 
were shot away ; she was much cut up in rigging, and 
received several shot in her hull. This obliged her to 
haul off to repair, and to cease firing. The Americans, 
now finding their principal gun, (long Tom) and several 
others, dismounted, deemed it folly to think of saving 
her against so superior a force, they therefore cut away 
her masts to the deck, blew a hole through her bottom, 
to«;k out their small arms, clothing, &c. and went on 
shore. I discovered only two shot holes in the hull of 
the privateer, although much cut up in rigging. Two 
boats' crews were soon after dispatched from our ves- 
sels, which went on board, took out some provisions, 
and set her on fire. For three days after, we were em- 
ployed in burying the dead, that washed on shore 
in the surf The number of British, killed, exceeds 
320, and 90 wounded. The enemy, to the surprise of 
mankind, lost only two killed, and seven wounded — 
We may well say, " God deliver us from our enemies/' 



,277 

if this is the way the Americans fij^ht. — After burning 
the privateer, Van Lloyd made a demand of the go- 
vernor to deliver up the Americans, as his prisoners — 
which the governor refused. He threatened to send 
500 men on shore, and take them by force. The Ame- 
ricans immediately retired, with their arms, to an old 
Gothic convent: nocked away the adjoining draw- 
bridge, and deir' 1 ined lo defend themselves to the 
last. The Va; , ^lowever, thought better than to send 
his men. He then demanded two men, which, he said, 
deserted from his vessel, when in America. The go- 
vernor sent for the men, but found none of the descrip- 
tion given. 

Many houses received much injury, on shore, from 
the guns of the Carnation. A woman, sitting in the 
fourth story of her house, had her thigh shot off; and 
a boy had his arm broken. The Amereican Consul 
here has made a demand on the Portuguese govern- 
ment for a hundred thousand dollars, for the privateer ; 
which our Consul, Mr. Parkin, thinks, in justice, will be 
paid ; and that they will claim on England. Mr. Par- 
kin, Mr. Edward Bay ley, and other English gentlemen, 
disapprove of the outrage and depredation committed 
by our vessels, on this occasion. The vessel that was 
dispatched to England, with the wounded, was not per- 
mitted to take a single letter from any person. Being 
an eye witness to this transaction, I have given you a 
correct statement, as it occurred. 

With respect, I am, &;c. 

H. K. F. 

The publisher has conversed with Captain Reid, who pronounces 
the foregoing account correct — especially in many particulars which 
he, being engaged, could not have an opportunity of witnessing. 

AFFAIR NEAR NEW ORLEANS. 

Copy of a Utter from Gen. A. Jackson, to the Secretary of War, dated 
Camp<, below New-Orleans y 25th Dec. 1814. 
SIR — The enemy having, by the capture of our 
gun-boats, obtained command of the lakes, were ena- 



278 

bled to eifect a passage to the Mississippi, at a point 
on the side of New-Orleans, and about 9 miles below 
it. The moment I received the intelligence, I hastened 
to attack him in his first position ; it was brought on 
in the night, and resulted very honorably to our arms. 
The heavy smoke, occasioned by an excessive fire, ren- 
dered it necessary that I should draw off my troops, 
after a severe conflict of upwards of an hour. 

The attack was made on the night of the 23d ; since 
then, both armies have remained near the battle ground, 
making preparations for something more decisive. 

The enemy's force exceeded ours, by double ; and 
their loss was proportionably greater. The moment I 
can spare the time, I will forward you a detailed ac- 
count ; — in the mean time I expect something, far more 
important will take place.— 1 hope to be able to sus- 
tain the honor of our arms, and to secure the safetv of 
the country. 

I have the honor, &:c. 

ANDREW JACKSON, 3Iaj. Gen. Comg. 
Hon. James Munroe, Sec. War, 



DETAILED ACCOUNT. 

H. Q. 7th Military District, 27th Dec. 1814. 

SIR — The loss of our gun-boats, near the pass of 
the Rigolets, having given the enemy the command of 
Lake Borgne, he was enabled to choose his point of at- 
tack. It became, therefore, an object of importance 
to obstruct the numerous bayous and canals, leading 
from that lake to the highlands, on the Mississippi. — 
This important service was committed, in the first in- 
stance, to a detachment from the 7th regiment ; after- 
wards to Col. ©e Laronde, of the Louisiana militia — 
.md lastly, to make all sure, to Maj. Gen. Villere, com- 
manding the district between the river and the lakes ; 
and who, being a native of the country, was presumed 
to be best acquainted with all those passes. Unfortu- 
nately, however, a picquet, which the General had 



279 

established at the mouth of the Bayou Bienvenu, and 
which, notwithstanding my orders, had been left unob- 
structed, was completely surprised ; and the enemy 
penetrated through a canal, leading to his farm, about 
two leagues below the city, and succeeded in cutting 
off a company of militia stationed there. This intelli- 
gence was communicated to me about 12 o'clock, of 
the 23d ; my force, at this time, consisted of parts of 
the 7th and 44th regiments, not exceeding 600, togeth- 
er ; the city militia, a part of Gen. Coffee's brigade of 
mounted gun-men, and the detached militia, from the 
western division of Tennessee, under the command of 
Maj. Gen. Carrol ; these two last corps were stationed 
four miles above the city. 

Apprehending a double altack, by way of Chief- 
Menteur, I left Gen. Carrol's force, and the militia of 
the city, posted on the Gentilly road ; and, at 5 o'clock, 
P. M. marched to meet the enemy, whom I was resolv- 
ed to attack in his first position, with Major Hind's 
dragoons. Gen. Coffee's brigade, parts of the 7th and 
44th regiments, the uniformed companies of militia, un- 
der the command of Major Planche — 200 men of co- 
lor, chiefly from St. Domingo, raised by Col. Savery, 
and acting under the command of Major Dagwin; and 
a detachment of artillery, under the direction of Col. 
M'Rea, with two 6 prs. under the command of Lieut, 
Spotts ; — not exceeding, in all, 1500. I arrived near 
the enemy's encampment about 7, and immediatel} 
made my dispositions for the attack — his forces amount- 
ing, at that time, on land, to about 3000, extended half 
a mile on the river ; and, in the rear, nearly to the 
wood. Gen. Coffee was ordered to turn their right, 
while, with the residue of our force, I attacked his 
strongest position on the left, near the river. Commo- 
dore Patterson having dropped down the river, in the 
schooner Caroline, was directed to open a fire on their 
camp, which he executed at about half after 7. This 
being the signal of attack, Gen. Coffee's men, with theii 
usual impetuosity, rushed on the enemy's right, and en- 
tered their camp — while our right advanced with equal 



280 

ardor. There can be but little doubt, that we should 
have succeeded on that occasion, with our inferior 
force, in destroying or capturing the enemy, had not a 
thick fog, which arose about 8 o'clock, occasioned 
some confusion among the different corps — fearing the 
consequences, under this circumstance, of the further 
prosecution of anight attack, with troops then acting 
together for the first time, I contented myself with 
lying on the field that night ; and, at four in the morn- 
ing, assumed a stronger position, about 2 miles nearer 
the city. At this position I remain encamped, waiting the 
arrival of the Kentucky militia, and other reinforcements. 
As the fate of the city will depend upon this army, it 
must not be incautiously exposed. 

In this affair, the whole corps, under my command, de- 
serve the greatest credit. The best compliment I can 
pay to Gen. Coffee, and his brigade, is to say they be- 
haved as they have always done, while under my com- 
mand; the 7th, led by Major Pierre, and the 44th, by 
Col. Ross, distinguished themselves; the battalion of city 
militia, commanded by Major Planche, realized my antici- 
pations, and behaved like veterans ; Savary's volunteers 
manifested great bravery ; and the company of city rifle- 
men, having penetrated into the midst of the enemy's 
camp, were surrounded, and fought their way out with 
the greatest heroism, bringing with them a number of 
prisoners — the two field pieces were well served, by the 
officer commanding them. 

All my officers in the line did their duty, and I have 
every reason to be satisfied with the whole of my field 
and staff. Cols. Butler and Piatt, and Major Chotard, by 
their intrepidity, saved the artillery ; Col. Haynes was 
every where that duty or danger called. I was deprived 
of the services of one of my aids, Capt. Butler, whom I 
was obliged to station in town ; Capt. Reid, my other aid, 
and Messrs. Livingston, Duplissis, and Davizac, who had 
volunteered their services, faced danger wherever it was 
to be met, and carried my orders with the utmost promp- 
titude. 



281 

We made one Major, 2 subalterns, and 63 privates pri- 
soners ; and the enemy's loss, in killed and wounded, must 

have been, at least . My own loss, I have not, as 

yet, been able to ascertain, with exactness; but suppose 
it to aniount to ]C0, in killed, wounded, and missino. — 
Among the former, I have to lament the loss of Col, lau- 
derdale, of Gen. Coffee's brigade, who fell while bravely 
fighting. Cols. Dyer and Gibson, of the same corps, were 
wounded, and Major Kavenaugh taken prisoner. 
I have the honor, &c. 

A. JACKSON. 



From the sayjic to the same — Dec. 29, 181 4. 
The enemy succeeded, on the 27th, in blowing up the 
Caroline, (she being becalmed,) by means of hot shot 
from a battery, which he had erected in the night. Em- 
boldened by this event, he marched his whole force the 
next day up the Levee, in the hope of driving us from our 
position ; and, with this view, opened upon us, at the dis- 
tance of about half a mile, his bombs and rockets. He 
was repulsed, however, with considerable loss — not less, 
it is believed, than 120 killed ; ours, not exceeding 6 kill- 
ed, and 12 wounded. Since then, he has not ventured to 
repeat his attempt, though lying close together — frequent 
skirmishing between our pickets. I lament that I have 
not the means of carrying on more offensive operations. — 
The Kentucky troops have not arrived ; and my effec- 
tive force, at this point, does not exceed 3000 ; theirs 
must be, at least, double — both prisoners and deserters 
agreeing, in the statement, that 7000 landed from their 
boats. I have the honor, &c. 

A. JACKSON. 



BATTLE OF NEW-ORLEANS. 

Copy of a letter from Gen. Jacksoii to the Secretary of War, dated 

Camp., 4 miles below Nen-Orleans^ Jan. 9, 1 H15. 

SIR — During the days of the 6th and 7th, the enemy 

had been actively employed, in makin<r preparations for 

an attack on my lines. With infinite labor they had jbuc- 

N n 



282 

ceeded, on the night of the 7th, in getting their boats 
across, from the lake to the river, by widening and deep- 
ening the canal, on which they had eifected their disem- 
barkation ; it had not been in my power to impede these 
operations, by a general attack ; added to other reasons, 
the natm-e of the troops under my command, mostly mili- 
tia, rendered it too hazardous to attempt extensive olfen- 
sive movements, in an open country, against a numerous 
and well disciplined army. 

Although my forces, as to number, had been increased 
by the arrival of the Kentucky division, my strength had 
received very little addition — a small portion only, of that 
detachment, being provided with arms. Compelled, thus, 
to wait the attack of the enemy, I took every measure to 
repel it, when it should be made, and to defeat the object 
he had in view. Gen. Morgan, with the Orleans contin- 
gent, the Louisiana militia, and a strong detachment of 
the Kentucky troops, occupied an intrenched camp on the 
opposite side of the river, protected by strong batteries 
on the bank, erected and superintended by Commodore 
Patterson. In my encampment, every thing was ready 
for action — when, early on the morning of the 8th, the 
enemy, after throwing a heavy shower of bombs and Con- 
greve rockets, advanced their columns on my right and 
left, to storm my intrenchments. I cannot speak suffi- 
ciently in praise of the firmness, and deliberation, with 
"which my whole line received their approach — more 
could not have been expected from veterans, inured to 
war. For an hour, the fire of the small arms was as in- 
cessant, and severe, as can be imagined — the artillery too, 
directed by officers who displayed equal skill and cou- 
rage, did great execution : — yet the columns of the ene- 
my continued to advance, with a firmness which reflects 
upon them the greatest credit ; twice the column which 
approached me, on my left, was repulsed by the troops 
of Gen. Carrol, those of Gen. Coffee, and a division of 
Kentucky militia — and twice they formed again, and re- 
newed the assault. At length, however, cut to pieces, 
they fled, in confusion, from the field, leaving it covered 
with their dead and wounded. The loss, which the ene- 



283 

my sustained on this occasion, cannot be estimated at les3 
than 1500, in killed, wounded, and prisoners — upwards 
of 300 have already been delivered over for burial ; and 
niy men are still engaged in picking them up, within my 
lines, and carrying them to the point where the enemy 
are to receive them; this is in addition to the dead and 
Avounded whom the enemy have been enabled to carry 
i'rom the field, during and since the action — and to those 
who have since died, of the wounds they received. We 
have taken about 500 prisoners, upwards of 300 of whom 
are wounded, and a great part of them mortally. My loss 
has not exceeded, and I believe has not amounted to ten 
killed, and as many wounded. The entire destruction of 
the enemv's armv was now inevitable, had it not been for 
an unfortunate occurrence, which, at this moment, took 
place on the other side of the river : — simultaneously with 
his advance upon my lines, he had thrown over, with his 
boats, a considerable force to the other side of the river ; 
these, having; landed, were hardy enough to advance to 
the assault of Gen. Morgan ; and what is strange, and dif- 
ficult to account for, at the very moment when their en- 
tire discomfiture was looked for, with a confidence ap- 
proaching to certainty, the Kentucky reinforcements, in 
whom so much reliance had been placed, in gloriously 
tied, drawing after them, by their example, the remainder 
of the forces, and thus yielding to the enemy the most 
fortunate position. — The batteries, which had rendered 
me, for many days, the most important service, though 
bravely defended, were, of course, now abandoned ; not, 
however, until the guns had been spiked. 

This unfortunate route had totally changed the aspect 
of affairs. The enemy now occupied a position from 
which they might annoy us without hazard, and by means 
of which they might have been enabled to defeat, in a 
great measure, the effects of our success on this side the 
river — it became, therefore, an object of the first magni- 
tude, to dislodge him as soon as possible ; for this object, 
all the means in my powder, which I could with any safety 
use, were immediately put in preparation. Perhaps, how^- 
cver, it was owinsc somewhat to another Gauge, that I sue- 



284 

ceeded, even beyond my expectations : — in neo-ociatino- the 
terms of a temporary suspension of hostilities, to enable 
the enemy to bury their dead, and provide for their 
wounded, I had required certain propositions to be acce- 
ded to, as a basis — among which, this was one ; — that, 
althouo^h hostihties should cease on this side the river, 
until 12 o'clock of this day, yet it was not to be under- 
stood that they should cease on the other side ; but, that 
no reinforcements should be sent across, by either army, 
until the expiration of that day. His excellency, Major- 
General Lambert, begged time to consider of those pro- 
positions, until 10 o'cio^ck to-day; and, in the mean time, 
re-crossed his troops. I need not tell you with how much 
ea2:erness I immediately regained possession of the posi- 
tion he had thus hastily quitted. 

The enemas having concentered his forces, may again 
attemnt to drive me from my position, by storm : when- 
ever he does, I have no doubt my men will act with their 
usual firmness, and sustain a character, now become dear 
to them. I have the honor, &c. 

A. JACKSON, Maj. Gen. Comg, 
Hon Sec. of War. 

H. Q. left hank nf .Wi;si<isippi, 5 miles below N. Orleans, Jan. 10, 1815. 

SIR— I have the honor to make the following report of the killed, wound- 
ed, and prisoners, taken, in the battle at Laroiid's plantation, on the left bank 
of the Mississippi, on the night of the 23d December, 1814, seven miles be- 
low N^ew-Orleans : 

A'/LL£;D— left on the field of battle, 100. WOUNDED— do ''80 — 
PRISONERS TAKEN— ^ Major, 2 Lieutenants, 1 Midshipman, 66 non- 
commissioned officers and privates— making a grand total of 400 

n, . r. } ^r^ t';e honor, &c. A. P. HAYIVE, Insp. Gen. 

Maj. ben. Andrew Jackson. 



FURTHER PARTICULARS. 

Copy of a letter from General Jac/cson, to the Secretary of War, dated 
Camp, 4 miles below Orleans, Jan. 13, 1815. 

SIR— At such a crisis, I conceive it my duty to keep you con- 
stantly advised of my situation. 

On the 10th inst. I forwarded you an account of the bold attempt 
made by the enemy, on the morning of the 8th, to take possession of 
my works by storm, and of the severe repulse which he met with.— 
That report, having been sent by the mail which crosses the lake 
may possibly have miscarried— for which reason, I think it the more 
necessary, briefly, to repeat the substance of it. 



285 

Early on the morning of the 8th, the enemy, Iiavin;5; been actively 
employ eil the two preceding days in making preparations for a storm, 
advanced, in two strong colimms, on my right and left; they were 
received, however, with a iirmness, which, it seems, they little ex- 
pected, and which defeated all their hoi<es. My men, undisturbed 
by their approach, which intleed they had long anxiously wished 
for, opened upon them a fire, so deliberate and certain, as rendered 
their scaling-ludders, and fascines, as well as (heir more direct ins- 
pletnents oi warfate, perftclly useless. For upwards of an hour, it 
was conluiued with a briskness of which there have been but few in- 
stances, perhaps, in any country. In jurtice to the enemy, it must 
be said, they withstood it as long as could have been expected from 
the most deiermined bravery. At length, however, when all pros- 
pect of success became hopeless, they tied, in confusion, from the 
field, leaving it covered with tiieirdead and wounded — their loss was 
immense : I had, at first, computed it at 1500 ; hut it is since ascer- 
tained to have lieen nmch greater. Upon iniormalion which is be- 
lieved to be correct, Col. Haynes, the lns[)ector-General, reports it 
to be, in the total, 2,600 — his rejiort I inclose you. My loss was in- 
considerable, being only 7 killed, and wounded. !Such a dispro- 
portion in loss, wlien we consider the number and kind of troops en- 
gaged, must, 1 know, excite astonishment, and may not, everv 
where, be credited ; yet, [ am perfectly satisfied that the account is 
not exaggerated on the one part, nor underrated on the other. 

The enemy having hastily quilted a post which they had gairieti 
possession ol", on the other side of the river, and we having immedi- 
ately returned to it, both armies, at present, occupy tlieir former 
positions. 

Whether, after the severe losses he has sustained, he is preparing 
to return to his shipping, or to make still mightier efforts to attain 
his first object, I do not pretend to determine. It becomes me to 
act as though the latter were his intention. One thing, however, 
seems certain: that, if he still calculates on eflecting wliat he has 
hitherto been unable to accomplish, he must expect considerable re- 
inforcements — as the force with which he landed must, undoubted- 
ly, be diminished, by at least 3000. Fesides the loss which he sus- 
tained on the 23d ult. which h estimated at 400, he cannot have 
suffered less between that period and the morning of the 8th inst. 
than 300 — having, within that time, been repulsed in (wo general 
attempts to drive us from our [)osition, and there having been con- 
tinual cannonading and skirmishing during the whole of it. Yet, he 
is still able to show a very formidable force. 

There is little doubt that the commanding General, Sir Edward 
Pakenham, was killed in the action of the 8th, and that Majors Gen. 
Keane and Gibbs were badly wounded. Whenever a more leisure 
moment shall occur, I will take the liberty to make out, and forward 
you a more circumstantial account of the several actions, and parti- 
cularly that of the 8th: in doing which, my chief motive will be, to 



28(3 

render justice to those brave men I have the honor to command, 
and who have so remarkably distinguished themselves. 
1 have the honor, &c. 

ANDREW JACKSON. 

REPORT of the killed, wounded, and prisoners tukeii, at the battle on the 
dth of Januarjj, 1815. — Killed, 700 — Wounded, 1400— Prisoners taken, 1 
Major. 4 Captains, 11 Lientenauts, 1 Ensign, 483 non-commissioned officers 
and privates — making a grand total of 2,(j00. 

JVlaj. Gen. J. Jackson. A. P. HAYNE, Lisp. Gen. 

DECAMPMENT OF THE ENEMY. 
Fran Maj, Gen. Jackson, to the Secretary of War. 

II. Q. 7Ui Mil.Dist. Camp, below Oilcans, Jan. 19. 1S1.5. 

Last night, at 12 o'clock, the enemy [)recij)ilately deciiiped, 
and returned to his boats, leaving behind him, under medical alteu- 
<lance, eighty of his wounded, including two officers, i'oui'een pieces 
of his heavy artillery, and a quantity of shot, having tiestroyed 
much of his powder. Such was the situation of the ground wiiich 
he abandoned, and of that through which he retired, protected by 
canals, redoubts, intrenchments, and swamps on his right, and the 
river on his left, that I could not, without encountering a risk, which 
true policy did not seem to require, or to authorize, attempt to annoy 
him much, on his retreat — we took only eight prisoners. 

"Whether it is the purpose of the enemy to abandon the expedition 
altogether, or renew his efforts at some other point, I do not pretend 
to determine with positiveness ; in my own mind, however, there is 
but little doubt that his last exertions have been made, in this quar- 
ter, at any rate for the present season; and, b}^ the next, I hope we 
shall be fully prepared for hi.m. In this belief I am stren<ithened, 
not only by the prodigious loss he has sustained at the position he 
has just quitted, but by the failure of his fleet to pass fort St. Philip. 

His loss, on this ground, since the debarkation of his troops, as sta- 
ted by all the last prisoners and deserters, and as confirmed by many 
additional circumstances, must have exceeded four thousand, and 
was greater, in the action of the 8th, than was estimated, from the 
most correct data then in his possession, by the Inspector-General, 
whose report has been forwarded to you. We succeeded, on the 8th, 
in getting from the enemy about lOOO stand of arms, of various 
descriptions. 

Since the action of the 8th, the enemy have been allowed very 
little respite — my artillery, from both sides of the river> being con- 
stantly employed, till the night, and indeed until the hour of their 
rptreat, in annoying them ; no doubt they thought it quite time to 
quit a position, in which so little rest could be found. 

I am advised by Major Overton, who commands at fort St. Philip» 
in a letter of the 18th, that the enemy, having bombarded his fort for 
8 or 9 days, from 13 inch mortars, without effect, had, on the morn- 
ing of that day, retired. I have little doubt that he would have been 
able to have sunk their vessels, had they attempted to run by. 



287 

Giving tlie proper weight to all these considerations, 1 believe 
J'^ou will not think me loo sanguine in the belief, that Louisiana is 
now clear of its enemy. I hope, however, I need not assure you, 
that wherever I command, such a belief shall never occasion any 
relaxation in fhe measures for resistance : I am but loo sensible that 
the moment when the enemy is opposing us, is not the most proper 
to provide them. I have the honor, «.ic. 

ANDREW .lACKSON. 

P. S. On the IStli, our prisoners on shore were delivered to us, an ex- 
change having been previously agreed to. Those wlio are on board the fleet 
will be delivered at Petit Coquillc, after which I shall still have iii my hands 
an excess of several hundred. ANDREW JACKSOJV. 

20th January. — Mr. Shields, purser in the Navy, has, to-day, ta- 
ken 54 prisoners; among them are 4 officers. A. J. 
Hon. James Munroe, Sec. War. 

II. Q. 1th Mil. Dist. Adj. Gens. Office, Jackson's Lines, bclon. 
Orleans, Jan. 16, 1815. 

SIR — I have the honor, herewith, to enclose, for the information of the 
War Department, a report of the killed, wounded, and missing, of the army 
under the command of Maj. Gen. Jackson, in the different actions with the 
enemy, since their landing, viz : 

Killed, in the action of the 2'id Dec. 1814,24 — Wounded, in do. IIT — Miss- 
ing, in do. 74— Total 213. Killed, in the action of Dec. 28th, 1814, 7 — 

Wounded, in do. H— Missing, None — Total 15. Killed in the action of 

January 1, 1815, 11 — Wounded, in do. 23 — Missing, None — Total 34. — 

Killed in the action of Jan. Sth, 1815, on both sides of the river, 13 — f round'- 
ed, 39— Missing, 19— Total 71 Grand Total 333, 

War Department. ROBERT BUTLER, J.dj. Gen. 

HORNET AND PENGUIN. 

Copy of a letter from Capt. Biddle to Com. Decatur, dated — U. S. Sloop Hor- 
net, off Tristan d' Acunha, March25, 1815. 
SIR — I have the honor to inform yo>i, that on the morning of the 23d inst. 
at half past ten, when about to anchor off the north end of tlie island of Tris- 
tan d'Acunha, a sail was seen to the southward and eastward, steering to the 
westward, the wind fresh from the S. S. W. In a iew minutes she had pass- 
ed on to the westward, so that we could not see her for the land. I innnedi- 
ately made sail for the westward, and shortly after, getting m sight of her 
again, perceived her to bear up before the wind. I hove too, for him to come 
down to us. When she had approached near, I filled the main-topsail, and 
continued to yaw the ship, while she continued to come down, wearing occa- 
sionally to prevent her passing under our stern. At 1, 40, P. M. being with- 
in nearly musquet-shot distance, she hauled her wind on the starboard tack. 
hoisted English colors, and fired a gnn. We immediately lulled too, hoisted 
our ensign, and gave the enemy a broadside. The action being thus com- 
menced, a quick and well directed fire was kept up from this ship, the enemv 
gradually drifting nearer to us, when at 1, 55m. he bore up, apparently to riiii 
us on board. As soon as I perceived he would certainly fall on board, I call 
ed the boarders, so as to be ready to repel any attempt to board us At the 
instant, every oflRcer and man repaired to the quarter-deck, where the two 
vessels were coming in contact, and eagerly pressed me to permit them to 
board the enemy ; but this I would not permit, as it was evident, from the 
commencement of th« action, that our fire was greatly superior, both fr» 



288 

:jiiickness and in eilect. The enemy's bowsprit came in between our main 
and raizen rigging, on our starboard side, aflbrdiiig him an opportunity to board 
lis, if such was his design ; but no attempt was made. Thf^e was a conside- 
rable swell on, and as tije sea lifted us ahead, the enemy's bowsprit carried 
away our mizen shrouds, stern davits, and spanker boom and he hung upon 
our larboard quarter. At tliis moment, an officer, who was afterwards recog- 
nized to be "tlr. iVl'Donald, the 1st Lieutenant, and the then commanding of- 
ficer, called out that they had surrendered. 1 directed the marines and mns- 
quetry-men to cease firing ; and, while on the tatirail, asking if they had sur- 
rendered, 1 received a wound in the neck. The enemy just then got clear ol 
us, and his foremast and bowsprit being botli gone, and perceiving us wear- 
ing to give him afresh broadside, he again called out that he bad surrendered. 
It was with difficulty I could restrain my crew from firing into him again, as 
he had certainly fired into us after having surrendered. From the firing o( 
the first gun, to the last time the enemy cried out he had surrendered, was 
exactly 22m. by the watch. She proved to be his B. M. brig Penguin, 
mountina; sixteen 321b carronad'ss, two long 12's, a 121b carronade on the 
top-gallant forecastle, Avith swivels on the' cap-stern, in the tops. She had a 
spare port forward, so as to fight both her long guns of a side. She sailed 
from England in September last. She was shorter upon deck than this ship, 
by two feet, but she had a greater length of keel, greater breadth of beam, 
thicker sides, and higher bulwarks, than this ship, and was, in all respects, 
a remarkably fine vessel of her class. The enemy acknowledge a comple- 
ment of 132; 12 of them supernumerary marines, from the Medway, 74. — 
They acknowledge, also, a loss of 14 killed and 28 wounded ; but Mr. Mayo, 
who was in charge of the prize, assures me that the number of killed was cer- 
tainly greater. It is a most pleasingpart of my duty to acquaint you, that 

the conduct of Lieuts. Conner and iXewton, Mr. Mayo, acting Lieut. Browns- 
low of the marines, sailing-master Kommey, and the other officers, seameUs 
and marines, I have the honor to command, was, in the highest degree, cre- 
ditable to themselves, and calls for my warmest recommendation. I cannot 
indeed do justice to their merits, 

I have the honor, &c. J. BIDDLE. 



CAPTURE OF THE CYANE AND LEVANT 

dopy of a letter from Capt. Stewart, to the Sccretarij of the JSavi/, dated U 
S. Frigate Constitvtioji, May — , 181.'}. 

SIR — Ou the 20th of February last, the island of Madeira bearing about AV. 
S. W. distant 60 leagues, we fell in with his B. M. two ships of war, theCy- 
ane and Levant, and brought them to action about 6 o'clock in the evening, 
both of which, alter a spirited engagement of 40 minutes, surrendered to thcr 
ship under my command. 

Considering the advantages, derived by the enemy, from a divided and 
more active force, as also their superiority in the weight and number of guns. 
I deem the speedy and decisive result of this action the strongest assurance 
which can be given to the government, that all under my command did their 
duty, and gallantly supported the reputation of Americnn seamen. 

Enclosed you will receive the minutes of the action, and a list of the kill- 
ed and wounded on board this ship; also, enclosed you will receive, for your 
information, a statement of the actual force of the enemy, and the number 
killed and wounded on board their ships, as near as could be ascertained. 
I have the honor, &c. CHAS. STEWART. 

Our loss, in the above action, was 3 killed and 12 wounded — total 15 ; that 
of the enemy was 12 killed and 26 wounded — total 38. 



289 

CAPTURE OF THE FRIGATE PRESIDENT. 

Copy of a letter from Com. Decatur, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

His Britannic Majesty's Ship Endymion, at Sea, 

Jan. 18, 1815. 

SIR — The painful duty of detailing to you the particular causes 
which preceded and led to the capture of the late United States fri- 
gate President, by a squadron of his Britannic Majesty's ships (as 
per margin) has devolved upon me. In my communication of the 
14th, I made known to you my intention of proceeding to sea on 
that evening. Owing to some mistake of the pilots, the ship in go- 
ing out grounded on the bar, where she continued to strike heavily 
for an hour and a half; although she had broken several of her rud- 
der braces, and had received such other material injury as to render 
her return into port desirable, I was unable to do so from the strong 
westerly wind which was then blowing. 

It being now high water, it became necessary to force her over 
the bar before the tide fell ; in this we succeeded by 1 o'clock, when 
we shaped our course along the shore of Long-Island for 50 miles, 
and then steered S. E. by E. At 5 o'clock, three ships were dis- 
covered ahead ; we immediately hauled up the ship and passed two 
miles to the northward of them. At daylight, we discovered 4 ships 
in chase, one on each quarter and two astern, the leading ship of the 
enemy a razee ; she commenced a fire upon us, but without effect. 
At meridian the wind became light and baffling, we had increased 
our distance from the razee; but the next ship astern, which was 
also a large ship, had gained and continued to gain upon us con- 
siderably; we immediately occupied all hands to lighten ship, by 
starting water, cutting away the anchors, throwing overboard pro- 
visions, cables, spare spars, boats, and every article that could be 
got at, keeping the sails wet from the royals down. At 3, we had 
the wind quite light ; the enemy who had now been joined by a brig, 
had a strong breeze and were coming up rapidly. The Endymion, 
(mounting fifty guns, 24 prs. on the main deck) had now approached 
us within gun shot, and had commenced a fire with her bow guns, 
which we returned from our stern. At 5 o'clock she had obtained 
a position on our starboard quarter, within half point blank shot, on 
which neither our stern nor quarter guns would bear; we were now 
steering E. by N. the wind N. W. I remained with her in this po- 
sition half an hour, in the hope that she would close with us on our 
broadside, in which case I had prepared my crew to board; but from 
his continuing to yaw his ship to maintain his position, it became 
evident that to close was not his intention. Every fire now cut some 
of our sails and rigging; to have continued our course under these 
circumstances would have been placing it in his power to cripple 
us, without being subject to injur}' himself, and to have hauled up 
more to the northward to bring our stern guns to bear, would have 
exposed us to his raking fire. It was now dusk, when I determined 
to alter my course south, for the purpose of bringing the enemy 

O o 



290 

abeam, and although (heir ships astern were drawing up fast, I felt 
satisfied I should be enabled to throw him out of the combat before 
they could come up, and w as not without hopes, if the night proved 
dark, (of which there was every appearance) that I might still be 
enabled to effect my escape. Our opponent kept off at the same in- 
stant we did, and our fire commenced at the same time. We con- 
tinued engaged, eteering south, with steering sails set, two hours and 
a half, when we completely succeeded in dismantling her; previous- 
ly to her dropping entirely out of the action, there were intervals 
of minutes when the ships were broadside and broadside in which 
she did not fire a gun ; at this period (half past 8 o'clock) although 
dark, the other ships of the squadron were in sight, and almost with- 
in gun shot; we were of course compelled to abandon her. In re- 
suming our former course for the purpose of avoiding the squadron, 
we were compelled to present our stern to our antagonist; but such 
was his state, though we were thus exposed and within range of his 
guns, for half an hour, that he did not avail himself of this favoura- 
ble opportunity of raking us. We continued this course until 11 
o'clock, when two fresh ships of the enemy (the Pomona and Tene- 
dos) had come up. The Pomona had opened her fire on the lar- 
board bow, within musket shot; the other about two cables length 
astern, taking a raking position on our quarter, and the rest (with 
the exception of the Endymion) within gun shot. Thus situated, 
with about one fifth of my crew killed and wounded, my ship crippled 
and a more than fourfold force opposed to me, without a chance of 
escape left, I deemed it my duty to surrender. 

It is with emotions of pride, I bear testimony to the gallantry and 
steadiness of every officer and man I had the honor to command on this 
occasion; and I feel satisfied that the fact of their having beaten a 
force equal to themselves, in the presence and almost under the guns 
of so vastly a superior force ; when, too, it was almost self-evident, 
that whatever their exertions might be, they must ultimately be cap- 
tured, will be taken as evidence of what they would have performed, 
had the force opposed to them been in any degree equal. 

It is with extreme pain I have to inform you, that Lieutenants 
Babbitt, Hamilton, and Howell, fell in the action. They have left 
no officers of superior merit behind them. 

If, Sir, the issue of this affair had been fortunate, I should have felt 
it my duty to have recommended to your attention. Lieutenants 
Shubrick and Gallagher ; they maintained through the day the repu- 
tation they had gained in former actions. Lieut. Twiggs, of the 
marines, displayed great zeal, his men were well supplied and their 
fire incomparable, so long as the enemy continued within musket 
range. Midshipman Randolph, who had charge of the forecastle di- 
vision, managed it to my entire satisfaction. From Mr. Robinson, 
who was serving as a volunteer, I received essential aid, particular- 
ly after I was deprived of the services of the master, and severe loss 
I had sustained in my officers on the quarter deck. 

Of our loss in killed and wounded, I am unable at present to give 
you a correct statement; the attention of the surgeon being so en- 



291 

tircly occupied with the "wounded, that he was unahle to make out a 
correct return when I left the President, nor shall I be able to make 
it until our arrival in port. We have parted company with the squad- 
ron yesterday. The enclosed list, with the exception, 1 fear, of its 
being short of the number, will be found correct. 

For 24 hours after the action it was nearly calm, and the squadron 
were occupied in repairing the crippled ships. Such of the crew of 
the President as were not badly wounded, were put on board the dif- 
ferent fchips; myself, and a part of my crew, were put on board this 
?hip. On the I7th. we had a gale from the eastward, when this ship 
lost her bowsprit, fore and mainmasts, and mizen topmasts, all of 
which were badly wounded, and was in consequence of her disabled 
condition, ©bliged to throw overboard, all of her upper deck guns; 
her loss in killed and wounded must have been very great. I have 
not been able to ascertain the extent. Ten were buried after I came 
on board, (3G hours after the action;) the badly wounded, such as 
are obliged to keep their cots, occupy the starboard side of the gun- 
deck, from the cabin bulk-heatl to the mainmast. From the crippled 
state of the President's spars, I feel satisfied she could not have saved 
her masts, and 1 feel serious apprehensions for the safety of our 
wounded on board. 

It is due to Captain Hope, to state, that every attention has been 
paid by him to myself and officers that have been placed on board 
his ship, that delicacy and humanity couid dictate. 

I have, Arc. 

STEPHEN DECATUR. 
Hon. B. W. Crorvninshield, Sec. Navy. 

British squadron referred to in the above letter. 

Majestic, (razee) - 62 guns. 
Endymion, frigate, 50 guns. 
Pomona, do. 
Tenedos, do. 
Dispatch, brig. 

List of killtd and wounded on hoard the Prei^idint in the above action. 

Killed - - 24 
Wounded - 55 



Total 79 killed and wounded. 



(About this time, Fort Bowyer was surrendered to the British; 
•the garrison consisted of ?>10 — the enemy, 6000.) 



292 

CAPTURE OF THE CYANE AND LEVANT. 

Copy of a letter from Lieut. Hoffman to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 

His B. M. late Ship Cyane, 

New-York, April 10, 1815. 

SIR — I have the honor to inform yon, that on the evening of the 
20th February last, while cruising off Madeira, the United States 
frigate Constitution fell in with His B. M. ships Cyane and Levant, 
which she captured after an action of fifty minutes. 

The Cyane is a frigate built shi[», mounting 34 carriage guns, viz. 
22 321b. carronades on the main-deck — 8 181b. carronades on the 
quarter-deck — 2 181b. carronades and two long nines on the forecas- 
tle, and from the best information I could obtain, carrying a compli- 
ment of 175 men, commanded by Gordon Falcon, Esq. The Le- 
vant mounting 21 carriage guns, viz. — 18 241b. carronades — 2 long 
nines and a shifting 12 pr. on the top-gallant forcastle, with a com- 
pliment of 150 men; commanded by the Hon. George Douglass. 
Both ships suffered severely in their spars, rigging, and sails ; the 
Constitution received but trifling injury, having only four men killed 
and 10 wounded; as to the loss of the enemy 1 cannot positively 
say, but should presume it was very severe. 

On the 9th of March, the Constitution with her two prizes in com- 
pany, anchored off the Isle of May, (one of the Cape-de-Verd Isl- 
ands.) On the loth, at 5, A. M. got under way and made sail for 
St. Jago's, where Ave anchored at 10.45 A. M. on the 12th, at half 
past meridian, discovered three sail in the offing; at 1.10 made them 
to be frigates, at which time the Constitution made signal to get un- 
der way ; at 1.20 cut our cable and made sail to the southward and 
eastward close on a wind ; at 1 .30 the forts on shore commenced firing 
on us; at 2. the Constitution made a signal to tack, which I did to 
the northward and westward; at 2.5 the sternmost frigate com- 
menced firing on us, and hoisted English colours, distant about two 
miles; at 2.20 lost sight of the Constitution and Levant, who were 
standing on a wind to the southward and eastward, the frigates in 
chase; at 2.35 lost sight of the enemy; at 3, heard a heavy can- 
nonading, which continued at intervals until half past 4; at sun 
down shaped my course for the United States. For the further par- 
ticulars of our cruise, I beg to refer you to Captain Stewart's official 
account on his arrival in the United States. 

I cannot conclude my letter without particularly recommending 
to your notice. Midshipman Joseph Cross, for whose unremitted ex- 
ertions and attention I feel myself greatly indebted ; and he is a 
young man, I think, who would do honor to a commission. 

As to Midshipmen James Delany and James F. Curtis, and the 
few men I have under my command, words would be insufficient to 
express my gratitude to them. 

Very respectfully, &c. 

B. T. HOFFMAN. 
Hon. B. W. Crorvninshield, Sec. Navy. 



293 

GUN-BOATS TAKEN BY THE ENEMY. 

Copy of a Letter from Commodore Patterson to the Secretary of the 

Navy, dated 

New-Orleans, 17th March, 1815. 

SIR — Enclosed I have the honor to transmit for your information 
a copy of a letter from Lieut. Thomas Ap. Catesby Jones, giving a 
detailed account of the action between the gun vessels under his 
command, and a flotilla of the enemy's launches and barges, on the 
14th December, 1814, which after a most gallant resistance, termi- 
nated as stated in my letter of the 17th December, in the capture of 
our squadron. The courage and skill which was displayed in the 
defence of the gun vessels and tender, for such a length of time, 
against such an overwhelming force as they had to contend with, 
reflects additional splendor on our naval glory, and will, I trust, di- 
minish the regret occasioned by their loss. 

I have, &c. 

DANIEL T. PATTERSON. 

Hon. B. W. Crowninshield, Sec'y of the Navy. 



New-Orleans, I2th March, 1815. 

SIR — Having sufficiently recovered my strength, I do my self the 
honor of reporting to you the particulars of the capture of the divi- 
sion of United States gun-boats, late under my command. 

On the 12th December, 1814, the enemy's fleet off" Ship-Island, 
had increased to such a force, as to render it no longer safe or pru- 
dent for me to continue in that part of the Lakes, with the small 
force which I commanded. I therefore determined to gain a sta- 
tion near the Malhereux Islands as soon as possible, which situation 
would better enable me to oppose a further penetration of the enemy 
up the Lakes, and at the same time afford me an opportunity of re- 
treating to the Petite Coquille's, if necessary. 

At 10, A. M. on the 13th, I discovered a large flotilla of barges 
had left the fleet, (shaping^ their course towards the Pass Christian) 
which I supposed to be a disembarkation of troops intended to land 
at that place. About 3, P. M. the enemy's flotilla having gained 
the Pass Christian, and continuing their course to the westward, 
convinced me that an attack on the gun-boats was their design. — • 
At this time the water in the Lakes was uncommonly low, owing 
to the westerly wind which had prevailed for a number of days, and 
which still continued from the same quarter. Nos. 156, 162, and 
163, although in the best channel, were in 12 or 18 inches less 
water than their draught; every effort was made to get them afloat 
by throwing overboard all articles of weight that could be dispensed 
Avith. At 3 3Q, the flood tide had commenced ; got under weigh, 
making the best of my way towards the Petite Coquille. At 3 45, 
the enemy dispatched three boats to cut out the schooner Sea- 
Horse, which had been sent into the Bay St. liouis, that morning, 



294 

to assist in the removal of the public stores which I had previously 
ordered; these finding a removal impracticable, I ordered prepara- 
tions to be made tor their destruction, least they should fall into the 
enemy's hands. A few discharges of grape shot from the schooner 
Sea-Horse, compelled the three boats which had attacked her, to 
retire out of the reach of her gun, until they were joined by four 
others, when the attack was recommenced by the seven boats.— 
Mr. Johnson having chosen an advantageous position, near the two 
six-pounders on the bank, maintained a sharp action for near thirty 
minutes, when the enemy hauled off, having one boat apparently 
much injured, and with the loss of several men killed and wounded. 
At 7 30, an explosion at the Bay, and soon after a large fire, indu- 
ced me to believe the Sea-Horse was blown up, and the public store 
house set on fire, as was the fact. 

About 1, A. M. on the 14th, the wind having died away, and our 
vessels become unmanageable, came to anchor in the west end of 
Malhereux Island's passage. At daylight next morning, still a per- 
fect calm, the enemy's flo^tilla was about nine miles from us, at 
anchor, but soon got in motion, and rapidly advanced towards us. — 
The want of wind, and the strong ebb tide which was setting 
through the Pass, left me but one alternative, which was, to put my 
vessels in the most advantageous position to give the enemy as warm 
a reception as possible. The commanders were all called on board 
and made acquainted with ray intentions, and the position which 
each vessel was to take, the whole to form a close line abreast 
across the channel, anchored by tlie stern, with springs on the 
cables, &c. &c. Thus we remained anxiously waiting an attack 
from the advancing foe, whose force I now clearly distinguished to 
be composed of forty-two heavy launches and gun barges, with 
three light giggs, manned with upwards of one tJiousand men and 
officers. About 9 30, the Alligator (tender) which was to the south- 
Avard and eastward, and endeavoring to join the division, was cap- 
tured by several of the enemy's barges, when the whole flotilla 
came to, with their grapnels a little out of the reach of our shot, 
apparently making arrangements for the attack. At 10 30, the 
enemy weighed, forming a line abreast in open order, and steering 
direct for our line, which was unfortunately, in some degree, broken 
by the force of the current driving Nos. 136 and 163 about 100 
yards in advance. 

As soon as the enemy came within reach of our shot, a deliberate 
fire from our long guns was opened upon him, but without much 
effect, the objects being of so small a size. At 10 minutes before 
11, the enemy opened a fire from the whole of his line, when the 
action became general and destructive on both sides. About 1 1 49, 
the advance boats of the enemy, three in Bumber, attempted to 
board No. 156, but were repulsed with the loss of nearly every offi- 
cer killed or wounded, and two boats sunk — a second attempt to 
board was then made by four other boats, which shared almost a 
similar fate. At this moment I received a severe wound in my left 



295 

shoulder, which compelled me to quit the deck, leaving it in charge 
of Mr. George Parker, Master's Mate, who gallantly defended the 
vessel until he was severely wounded, when the enemy, by his su- 
perior numbers, succeeded in gaining possession of the deck about 
10 minutes past 12 o'clock. The enemy immediately turned the 
guns of his prize on the other gun-boats, and fired several shot pre- 
vious to striking the American colors. The action continued with 
unabating severity until 40 minutes past 12 o'clock, when it termi- 
nated with the surrender of No. 23, all the other vessels having 
previously fallen into the hands of the enemy. 

In this unequal contest, our loss in killed and wounded has been 
trifling, compared with that of the enemy, which amounts to nearly 
four hundred. 

Enclosed you will receive a list of the killed and wounded, and 
a correct statement of the force which I had the honor to command 
at the commencement of the action, together with an estimate of 
the force I had to contend against, as acknowledged by the enemy, 
which will enable you to decide how far the honor of our country's 
flag has been supported in this conflict. 
I have, &c. 

THOS- AP. CATESBY JONES. 
Captain D. T. Patterson, 

Com'dg. U. S. naval forces New-Orleans station. 
Statement of the eflective force of a division of the U. States 
gun-boats, under the command of Lieut. Thomas Ap. Catesby 
Jones, at the commencement of the action, with a flotilla of Eng- 
lish gun-boats, on the 14th December, 1814, viz: five gun-boats, 
mounting in all 23 guns, with a complement of 182 men. 

The schooner Sea-Horse had one six-pounder and 13 men — Sail- 
ing Master Wm. Johnson, Commander — none killed or wounded. - 

The sloop Alligator, (tender,) had one four-pounder and eight men ; 
Sailing-Master Richard S. Shepperd, Commander. 

THOS. AP. C. JONES, 
Lieut. Comd't. U. S. Navy N. Orleans. 
The following is a correct statement of the British forces which 
v^ere engaged in the capture of the late United States gun-boats 
Nos. 23, 156, 5, 162 and 63, near Malhereux Islands, Lake Borgne. 
14th December, 1814 : — 
40 launches and barges, mounting one carronade each, of 12, 18 
and 241b. calibre, 
1 launch mounting one long brass 12 pounder, 
1 do. do. do. 9 do. 

3 giggs with small arms only. 

Total number of boats, 45 

Total number of cannon, 42 

The above flotilla was manned with twelve hundred men, com- 
manded by Capt. Lockyer, who received three severe wounds in 
the action. ' THOS. AP. C. JONES. 



